Life doesn’t stand still after a divorce or family law case wraps up. Jobs change, incomes shift, parenting schedules stop working, kids grow, and their needs change with them. And an order that made perfect sense the day it was signed can start to feel impossible to live with a year or two later.
When that happens, it’s worth asking whether a post-decree modification makes sense for your situation. Knowing when a court order can actually be changed puts you in a much better position to make good decisions as your life moves forward.
Here’s what you should know about post-decree modifications in Colorado.
1. You Can’t Just Agree to Change Things on Your Own
A lot of people assume that if both parents agree, they can just start doing things differently and skip the paperwork. Parents absolutely can work together and cooperate day to day, but a handshake agreement doesn’t carry the same weight as a modified court order. If something goes wrong down the road, that informal understanding may not protect you.
Whether you actually need to go back to court for a formal modification depends on your specific case.
2. You Generally Need a Substantial Change in Circumstances
Courts don’t modify orders just because someone would prefer things be different now. In most situations, you have to show a substantial change in circumstances, something real that’s shifted since the last order was entered. That could be income, parenting time, a child’s needs, or another significant factor.
No two families look alike, and what counts as substantial in one case won’t necessarily hold up in another.
3. Several Types of Orders Can Be Modified
Depending on what’s changed, a number of different orders may be open to modification, including parenting plans, parenting time, child support, and maintenance. Knowing which of your orders can actually be revisited is the first step toward figuring out what to do next.
4. Getting Legal Guidance Makes a Real Difference
Post-decree cases are all about what’s changed since your original order was entered, and understanding how those changes affect your rights and obligations isn’t always straightforward. Talking with an experienced family law attorney can help you figure out whether a modification is worth pursuing given where things stand for your family right now.
When Life Changes, Your Court Orders May Need to Change Too
Circumstances shift. That’s just how families work. Revisiting your court orders when something significant happens in your life can help make sure those orders still reflect reality and still protect what matters to you.
The earlier you understand your options, the better decisions you can make as things continue to evolve.
Questions About Post-Decree Modifications?
Contact The Drake Law Firm Today
If your circumstances have changed and you’re wondering whether you can modify an existing court order, we can help you sort through your options. Our Colorado family law attorneys handle post-decree modifications, parenting plans, child support, maintenance, and everything in between. Reach out to The Drake Law Firm today to schedule a consultation.