How do you get spousal support, child support or child custody orders modified after a divorce decree or dissolution in Columbus and Central Ohio? Generally speaking, in post divorce decree modifications the Court will be looking for what is legally described as a “significant change in the Status Quo.” What is the Status Quo? What qualifies as a significant change?
The Courts here in Columbus and across Central and Southern Ohio carry a heavy backload of cases. Post decree modifications will usually not be granted by the Court unless your attorney can present evidence that a compelling change has occurred in the circumstances, or Status Quo, of one or both parties.
Professionally crafted separation agreements or agreed judgments of divorce – the primary documents in Ohio dissolution and divorce proceedings – can contain language which establishes some of the potential agreed benchmarks that would constitute a change in the Status Quo. These benchmarks can include the necessity to relocate out of the area or out of State, marriage, or even significant increases or decreases in income.
Some major life events such as a minor child gaining the age of majority, or child support calculations changing by 10% will qualify as well. Many support agreements specify a time frame for the spouse receiving spousal support to become self-sufficient or financially independent. It may be necessary to review these orders in light of events that have happened in your life, or that of your former spouse.
The attorneys at The Law Offices of William L. Geary are experienced and seasoned divorce decree modifications and Family Law attorneys. We are prepared to review your case, and provide advice on the likelihood of success and the specific circumstances relating to “Status Quo” in your case. We invite you to contact us, or call (614) 289-1227. We will discuss what has happened, your unique circumstances and the outcome of similar cases here in Columbus.