Grapevine, Texas Post-Decree Modification Lawyers

Skilled Attorneys for Post-Decree Modifications in Grapevine, TX

When a divorce is finalized, it will be enforced with legally binding terms. However, this does not mean that the terms of the divorce cannot be changed later with good cause. With the help of a Grapevine, TX post-decree modification attorney, you can petition to alter the court orders from your dissolution of marriage.

If you want to modify your divorce decree, you need to have a strong understanding of Texas law. At Powell Law Offices, P.C., our attorneys have decades of shared experience, allowing us to draw on a wealth of legal knowledge to assist with your case.

Modifying Child Support Orders

Court orders of child support are important for providing a child with necessary financial assistance. A parent may seek a modification if circumstances change materially and substantially. Eligible changes include significant shifts in income, employment status, cost of living, or the child's needs, such as extraordinary medical or educational expenses.

To begin the process, the requesting party files a suit to modify child support in the court that issued the original order. The court reviews updated financial affidavits, income documentation, and evidence of changed circumstances. Judges apply the statutory child support guidelines unless deviation serves the child's best interests—for example, when a parent's income substantially exceeds the guideline calculation.

Outside of material and substantial changes, a parent may also seek a modification if it has been three years since the last effective child support order, and the monthly payments under the current arrangement differ by more than 20 percent or over $100 from what would be awarded with the court's child support guidelines.

Modification of Child Custody Arrangements

Child custody modifications require a demonstration of a material and substantial change in circumstances affecting the child's welfare. Typical grounds include relocation, changes in a parent's work schedule that impair access, a parent's relapse into substance abuse, or evidence of neglect or abuse.

Texas courts prioritize the "best interest of the child" factors set out in Holley v. Adams, examining emotional and physical needs, stability of the home environment, and the ability of each parent to foster a positive relationship with the other parent when appropriate. To pursue a modification, a parent files a petition to modify conservatorship or possession and access in the issuing court. Temporary orders may address urgent matters such as allegations of abuse or pending relocation requests.

If parents consent to revised terms, they may submit a mediated or negotiated agreement for the court's approval. Otherwise, the court conducts a hearing, considers witness testimony, expert evaluations if necessary, and issues an order that reflects the child's evolving needs.

Modifying Spousal Maintenance Orders

Spousal maintenance orders may be modified only upon proof of a significant change in circumstances that makes enforcement of the original order unfair or unworkable. Examples include a payor's unexpected job loss, a payee's cohabitation or remarriage that alters financial needs, or a substantial change in either party's earning capacity due to health issues.

During a hearing to modify maintenance, the court examines income records, employment history, and evidence of changed circumstances. If the court finds the change justifies altering or ending support, it issues a new order and adjusts arrearages accordingly. Our firm can represent you in a petition to modify support, presenting financial statements and other proof of your changed needs.

Contact a Grapevine, Texas Post-Decree Modification Attorney Today

At Powell Law Offices, P.C., we can guide you through the process of modifying a court order, first reviewing your case to see if you have grounds to change the court order. To schedule a free virtual or in-person consultation, call us at 972-584-9382 or contact our Grapevine post-decree modification lawyers.