A formal request to a court asks for changes to an existing order established during dissolution of marriage proceedings. Such requests typically seek alterations to child custody arrangements, child support obligations, spousal support payments, or other aspects of the original divorce settlement. For example, if one parent relocates a significant distance, the other parent might file this action to revise the visitation schedule.
This legal mechanism provides a crucial avenue for addressing changed circumstances that significantly impact the fairness or practicality of the initial judgment. It acknowledges that life events such as job loss, remarriage, or a child’s evolving needs may necessitate adjustments to ensure equitable outcomes. Historically, these actions have been vital in adapting divorce decrees to reflect contemporary family dynamics and economic realities, fostering a more just resolution over time.