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Child custody

modification

Either parent may file a petition to modify a child custody order—but usually only when there is a substantial change in circumstances that affects the child (including changes in one or both of the parents’ lives) that justifies the court revisiting and possibly modifying the earlier child custody order.

The petition to modify child custody generally must be filed in the same court in which the parents’ divorce case was decided. But if the child lives in a different county or state, the courts of the county or state where the child lives may be the proper place to file a petition to modify a child custody order.

In Pennsylvania, either parent has the right to file a petition to modify a child custody order. However, the court will only consider such a petition if there is evidence of a substantial change in circumstances that affects the welfare of the child. This could include significant changes in the life of either parent or the child. The petition must typically be filed in the court that issued the original custody order. If the child has since moved to a different county or state, the petition may need to be filed in the court that has jurisdiction over the child's new residence. It's important for parents to understand that the child's best interests are the court's primary concern when considering any modifications to custody arrangements.

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Child custody

modification

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Pennsylvania State Code

Pennsylvania State Code

Child custody

modification

Articles