Parenting Plan & Child Support Order Modifications

Parenting Plan and Child Support Order Modifications

Life does not stand still after a divorce or custody order is entered. Job changes, relocations, new relationships, and children's evolving needs can all make an existing parenting plan or child support order impractical or unfair. Washington law allows parents to seek modifications when there has been a substantial change in circumstances.

Modifying a Parenting Plan

According to RCW 26.09.260, modifications must serve the child's "best interest." Modifications typically require major life events that prevent compliance with the current agreement. Without significant financial changes, both parents must agree, or proof must demonstrate that the child's living conditions are inadequate or potentially harmful.

Can You Modify Without Going to Court?

Minor changes, such as adjusting work-related schedule modifications, may avoid court proceedings. However, an adequate cause hearing is generally required for a judge to assess the reasons for modification. The process involves filing a "Petition to Change a Parenting Plan, Residential Schedule, or Custody Order" that specifies:

• Changes must result from new findings that emerged after the initial plan was established
• Courts may reevaluate if they were unaware of certain findings during the original approval
• Whether changes constitute "major" (different residential parent) or "minor" modifications

Modifying a Child Support Order

Circumstances that may justify a child support modification include:

• Job loss or unemployment with unsuccessful job-seeking efforts
• Significant pay increases or decreases
• Child turning 18 and graduating high school
• Child age 18 or older without college plans
• College-aged child with consistently low grades or major changes unrelated to career pursuits

Terminating Child Support

Child support may terminate under several conditions:

• Child reaches legal age, has completed high school, and has no college intentions
• Parental rights are surrendered
• The child marries (the new spouse assumes financial responsibility)
• Another adult adopts the child (the adoptive parent assumes obligations)
• Parents reconcile and remarry (though a formal termination request is still necessary)

The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer simplifies the parenting plan and child support modification process. Our services include identifying the correct forms, filing assistance, and court submission handling. We offer quality legal representation at economical rates. Contact us today for a consultation -- you are a five-minute call away.