Child Custody And Child Support Modification
Your Family is Our Priority
Columbia, MD & DC Child Custody & Child Support Modification Lawyers
Modifying child custody or child support orders in DC and Maryland can be challenging. While courts acknowledge that life circumstances can change for family members in the months and years after orders have been issued, those changes must be significant to justify modifications.
At Law Offices of Thomas Stahl, our child custody and support attorneys are a proven resource for navigating these complex legal matters. We have extensive experience advocating for families and understand the court’s standards for evaluating modification requests.
Whether you have experienced a job loss, relocation, or other major life event, we can fight to protect your relationship with your child and their well-being. Our team has 30 years of combined experience resolving family law issues and disputes. We represent parents seeking and contesting modifications through the courts.
We offer a compassionate approach combined with trusted legal advocacy. Our attorneys are committed to providing personalized guidance and support throughout your legal journey.
Book a consultation with a Columbia, MD & DC child custody and child support modification attorney at Law Offices of Thomas Stahl. Call (443) 331-2770 or complete our online contact form.
Why Child Custody & Support Modifications Are Challenging
As stated above, courts are reluctant to modify child-related orders once they are established. Children thrive on routine and a stable environment. Frequent changes can be disruptive and unsettling, especially for younger children, so courts aim to maintain consistency.
Legal systems value the finality of judgments to provide certainty and predictability for all parties involved. Once a decision is made, it is generally expected to remain in place unless compelling reasons warrant a change.
By making modifications difficult, courts encourage parents to reach comprehensive and lasting agreements initially, knowing that changes will not be easily granted. Furthermore, constantly revisiting and modifying orders can burden the court system.
Despite these barriers, modifications can be made when necessary. Skilled legal representation is essential to creating a solid and compelling case.
How to Modify a Child Custody Order in Columbia or DC
To modify a child custody order, you must demonstrate a material change in circumstances that significantly impacts your child’s best interests.
Common reasons for custody modification include:
The need for relocation due to a job or family needs
Work schedule changes affecting custody or visitation
Remarriage (requires showing how the new spouse impacts the child’s best interests)
Major health issues affecting the child or parent
Other factors such as incarceration, abuse, or drug addiction
Proactive Legal Planning for Major Life Changes
We encourage proactive legal planning during major life changes to ensure your family's rights are protected.
Trustworthy Advocacy
We are committed to doing things the right way, without shortcuts. Our meticulous approach earns the trust of both our clients and the courts, ensuring that your case is presented with precision and integrity.
Compassionate Family Law Representation
We provide compassionate legal advocacy for families and couples, guiding you through life's toughest transitions with care and expertise.
Here for You Every Step of the Way
We stand by your side throughout the entire legal process, providing trusted support from start to finish.
Modifying Child Support Orders in Columbia or DC
Like custody modifications, child support modifications require a significant change in circumstances affecting the child’s well-being.
Examples include:
Disability
Birth of a new child
Child’s medical needs
Relocation expenses
Substantial change in income
Child support orders remain in effect until the child reaches at least 18 years of age, regardless of modification requests.
Let Us Help You Navigate the Modification Process
The modification process involves filing a motion with the court, submitting evidence demonstrating the need for a change, and a hearing in which you and your co-parent can present your evidence and arguments. Our attorneys can assist at every process step and represent your case before the judge.
Not all life changes warrant a modification. Our skilled modification attorneys can assess your situation and guide you through the legal process to give your request the best chance of success. We also represent parties who oppose modifications through the court process.
Discuss your case directly with a Columbia, MD & DC child custody and support modification lawyer by contacting us at (443) 331-2770.
Tom is a fierce, compassionate advocate for his clients with a tremendous amount of experience. I would strongly recommend his services to anyone looking for a divorce/family attorney.
Andrew A.
“I would highly recommend Tom for your divorce family case.”
“Tom always made me feel protected and assuring that things would be ok even when it felt things were at the bottom for me. I have Tom to thank for bringing justice to my custody battle.”
David S.
“I have no doubt I am in good hands.”
“Nothing but five stars to express my gratitude for the assistance this group of lawyers had been providing me for the past two years. The staff has a strong sense of legal experience. Always professional and clearly experts at their craft.”
