Divorce Modification Lawyer in Cherry Hill

When Life Changes After Your Divorce

Life after divorce rarely stays the same. A job loss, a promotion, a new work schedule, a child’s changing needs, or a planned move can turn a once workable divorce order into something that no longer fits your reality. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone.

At William Kirby Law, Family Law Attorneys, we help parents and former spouses seek practical changes to custody, parenting time, child support, and alimony orders under New Jersey law. Our team understands how draining your original divorce may have been, and we know that the thought of returning to court can feel overwhelming.

To discuss your situation with our Cherry Hill divorce modification team, call us at (215) 515-9901.

When New Jersey Courts Allow Changes

One of the first questions people ask us is whether their situation is serious enough for a judge to consider changing an existing order. In New Jersey, courts generally require a substantial change in circumstances before they will revisit custody, parenting time, child support, or alimony. What counts as substantial depends on the facts of each case.

For financial issues, a significant and lasting change in income is often central. Losing a job, taking a major pay cut, experiencing a health condition that limits your ability to work, or a meaningful increase in your former spouse’s income can all be relevant. Courts typically look for changes that are not temporary and that materially affect a party’s ability to meet obligations.

Types Of Orders You May Modify

Many people think only of child support when they hear the word “modification,” but several parts of a divorce judgment can potentially be revisited under New Jersey law. Knowing which category you fall into can make it easier to see your options.

Custody and parenting time arrangements are common areas for change. As children grow and parents’ schedules shift, a plan that worked for a toddler may no longer make sense for a teenager with school, activities, and social commitments. Updates might involve weekday and weekend time, holidays and vacations, or how parents share decision-making on important issues.

Child support can also be reviewed when income or expenses change in a meaningful way. New Jersey uses guidelines to help calculate support, but those guidelines depend on accurate information about earnings, work-related childcare, health insurance costs, and other factors. A pay cut, job loss, promotion, or a new medical expense for a child can all prompt a closer look.

Alimony or spousal support may be modifiable as well, depending on how it was structured in your original judgment and the specific terms you agreed to at the time. Some alimony awards are open to change if circumstances shift, while others are not. Reviewing your original documents is an important step in understanding what is possible.

Not every provision in a divorce judgment can be changed at any moment. Time limits, specific language in your settlement, and New Jersey statutes all play a part. Our team reviews the written terms carefully, then explains in straightforward language which parts of your order may realistically be open to adjustment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my situation justifies a modification?

A situation may justify a modification when there has been a substantial, ongoing change in your finances, your children’s needs, or your parenting schedule. During a consultation, we review your current orders and what has changed, then explain how New Jersey courts typically view similar circumstances.

How long do divorce modifications usually take in New Jersey?

The time frame for modifications varies based on court schedules, case complexity, and whether parents agree on changes. Some matters resolve through agreement relatively quickly, while contested cases can take longer. We explain likely timing for your situation and keep you updated as your case moves forward.

Can I change child support if I lose my job?

A significant and genuine job loss can be grounds to ask the court to review child support. New Jersey courts generally look at the reason for the job loss, your efforts to find work, and overall finances. We can help evaluate your circumstances and discuss whether requesting a change may be appropriate.

Do I have to work with the lawyer who handled my divorce?

You do not have to return to the same lawyer who handled your divorce. Many people seek a new attorney for post-judgment issues. We review your existing judgment and orders, even if another firm drafted them, and then talk through possible strategies for addressing your current concerns.

How will your team help reduce conflict with my ex?

We work to reduce conflict by focusing discussions on specific solutions, using clear communication, and exploring whether agreements are possible before turning to contested hearings. Our disciplined, respectful approach aims to protect your children from unnecessary stress while still addressing the issues that brought you to us.

To schedule a consultation with our Cherry Hill divorce modification attorneys, call us at (215) 515-9901.