Mesa Divorce Modification Lawyers

Change Your Divorce Decree to Reflect Your Changing Life

Even after a divorce decree is finalized, situations may arise that call for a post-decree modification. The idea is simple enough; life changes may require changes to the divorce decree. However, the process of petitioning the court can be complex.

So the question remains: Can you change the orders in a divorce decree in Arizona?

Would-be petitioners are highly encouraged to work with an attorney experienced in post-decree modifications and Arizona family law. At Edwards & Petersen | PLC, our divorce modification lawyers in Mesa have helped numerous clients throughout East Valley successfully change their divorce decrees.

Discuss your needs with our firm today by calling (480) 418-5656 or contacting us online!

When to Seek Post-Decree Modifications

After a divorce, there are many reasons either party might pursue a post-decree modification. Often, both parties come to an arrangement that works better than the decree did and want to make it official.

There are, of course, many reasons only one party seeks a modification, such as:

• Changes to income
• Job loss or promotion
• Serious illness or injury
• Relocation to a new state
• Remarriage
• When crucial data was not included in the original decree

How to Qualify for Modification

Parties may request a modification of any aspect of the divorce decree, but the more common requests are changes to child support, spousal maintenance, and custody agreements. Typically, one of the parties experiences a major life change instigating such a request.

In Arizona, modifications are only granted if you can prove that your circumstances have changed substantially. Changes to financial support are only considered if the amount paid will increase or decrease by at least 1%.

A modification is not only permissible but also recommended if one party neglected to include important information before the divorce decree, such as information relating to a 401(k) plan.

Ignoring a Court Order

If both parties agree, actions at variance with a divorce decree are permissible and even common, particularly in cases of scheduled parenting time. The goal, though, is to have some sort of formalized document in place that protects both parties in the event today’s amicable post-divorce relationship becomes tomorrow’s antagonistic one. A written agreement, preferably signed and notarized, protects both parties. This agreement may also be used to grant a formal post-decree modification.

Work with Our Accomplished Mesa Divorce Modification Lawyers

At Edwards & Petersen | PLC, we are ready to fight for your rights. With all the changes life throws at us, divorce decree modifications are common. If you are considering this complex process, schedule a consultation with our firm today. We have the background and knowledge in Arizona family law to guide you through the process.

Call (480) 418-5656 to get started!