Understanding Florida Child Custody Modifications: When and How You Can Change a Parenting Plan
By Christian Van Riper, Family Law Attorney
(Former Local Prosecutor and DCF Investigator)
When life changes, so should your parenting plan, if it’s in your child’s best interest. Many parents across Florida find themselves asking, “Can I modify my custody or timesharing order in Florida?”
The short answer: yes, but only under specific circumstances, and with a solid legal strategy behind you.
When You Can Seek a Custody Modification in Florida
Florida law requires that any request to modify a parenting plan or timesharing schedule show a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the last order was entered.
Examples may include:
- A parent relocating far from the child’s primary residence.
- A major change in work schedules that affects parenting time.
- A parent’s new marriage or living situation that impacts the child’s well-being.
- A pattern of one parent violating the existing parenting plan.
- Evidence of neglect, instability, or unsafe living conditions.
Florida family law courts take these petitions seriously. The goal is not to punish a parent, but to ensure the child’s stability and best interests are protected.
How the Florida Family Law Court Evaluates Custody Modifications
Florida judges look at several key factors:
- Best Interests of the Child: Always the guiding principle.
- Parental Involvement: Whether both parents are supporting a relationship with the child.
- Consistency: Whether the requested change will improve the child’s daily life and emotional security.
- Evidence: You’ll need proof—witnesses, documents, school records, or testimony—to back up your claims.
Why Experience Matters in Custody Cases
As a former prosecutor and Department of Children and Families (DCF) investigator, I’ve seen firsthand how family dynamics and the court system intersect. These experiences allow me to quickly identify what evidence matters most and how to present it effectively to the court.
Every case is unique, but the most successful custody modifications are those supported by clear, organized, and credible evidence, something my team and I emphasize in every case we handle.
A Florida Law Firm Workign Hard for You
At Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, we’re proud to be a veteran-owned family law firm with deep roots in Palm Beach, Broward, Martin, and St. Lucie counties. Our clients aren’t just case files, they’re our neighbors.
We know the local judges, court staff, and opposing counsel, and we know how to navigate the family court system efficiently and respectfully. Clients often tell us they appreciate how accessible we are. We answer our phones, we return calls, our clients have Christian’s cell phone number and we’re proactive about keeping you informed.
We also proudly offer fee discounts for military veterans and their spouses, recognizing the sacrifices they’ve made for our nation.
Talk to a Family Law Attorney Today
If your family’s situation has changed and you believe your parenting plan no longer serves your child’s best interests, contact Christian Van Riper for a confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next right step forward.
Local roots. Veteran-owned.
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Van Riper & Nies Attorneys, P.A. — Veteran-Owned Law Firm with Local Roots Serving Martin & St. Lucie County, Florida