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Modifying Child Custody Arrangements In Arkansas

As children grow and as families change, their needs change as well. Sometimes existing child custody orders are no longer adequate. When this happens, it is possible to request modification of an existing court order.

At Robertson, Oswalt, Nony & Kennedy PLLC, in Little Rock, we help Arkansas parents with matters of child custody modification. Our team of knowledgeable and skilled attorneys can guide you through the process to make sure things go smoothly and that your interests — and the interests of your child — are protected.

Arkansas child custody laws changed in 2021. How does this impact your situation and request for modification? Contact us for help.

Many of the child custody modification cases we handle involve situations where a custodial parent is allegedly not taking good care of the child. The noncustodial parent motions the court for a modification that gives him or her more time with the child. We also handle modifications of visitation from supervised visitation to unsupervised visitation, or vice versa. Some of these cases involve the very serious psychological problem of parental alienation syndrome.

Relocation Outside Of Arkansas

In these difficult economic times, more and more parents are being forced to move away from Arkansas in search of employment. Robertson, Oswalt, Nony & Kennedy PLLC, offers representation for matters related to parental “move-aways..

While courts cannot prohibit a move without good reason, we often advise our clients subject to existing Arkansas child custody orders that it may be prudent to get the court’s permission before the move. The court will examine whether or not the move is in the best interests of the child Noncustodial parents wishing to oppose the move must show that it is not in the child’s best interests.

What Qualifies As A Substantial Change For Child Custody Or Support In Little Rock And Arlington?

In Arkansas, the courts require proof of a substantial and continuing change in circumstances before modifying a child support or custody order. This rule helps ensure that changes are made only when necessary for the child’s well-being.

Families in Little Rock and Arlington face situations where adjustments become important, but not every change will meet the legal standard. Examples of circumstances that may qualify include:

  • Relocation: When a parent moves a significant distance, it can affect parenting schedules, school stability and visitation.
  • A parent’s ability to care for the child: If a parent becomes ill, loses employment or struggles with issues like substance abuse, it may impact custody decisions.
  • Safety concerns: Evidence of abuse, neglect or dangerous living conditions can justify modifying an order.
  • The child’s needs: As children grow, they may require new educational or medical support that alters financial or custody arrangements.
  • The child’s wishes: In some cases, courts may consider their preferences when deciding custody, especially as children mature.

Each of these situations can carry weight in court, but they must be shown to have a lasting effect on the child’s life. A Little Rock child custody modification lawyer helps ensure that the proper evidence is presented clearly and persuasively.

What Is Not Considered A Substantial Change In Arkansas?

While some changes may feel significant to parents, Arkansas law sets a high bar for modifying custody or support. The following are often not considered substantial changes:

  • Minor disagreements between parents.
  • Temporary financial setbacks, if they do not have a lasting effect.
  • Small adjustments in a child’s schedule or extracurricular activities.

These examples show why legal guidance is crucial. A parent may believe a change is meaningful, but the court may not agree. Speaking with a knowledgeable child custody attorney in Little Rock or Arlington can help families understand whether their situation meets the legal threshold.

Contact Lawyers Dedicated To You And Your Family

Contact Robertson, Oswalt, Nony & Kennedy PLLC, by calling 501-588-4451 or 866-311-3815 to schedule an initial consultation about child custody modification. You may also contact us by email. From our office in Little Rock, we help clients throughout Arkansas. Dedicated to providing cost-effective legal representation, we accept Visa and Mastercard. Payment plans are available.