Modifications of Parenting Plans in Dallas

Custody & Visitation Modifications in Collin, Tarrant, and Denton Counties

It may be necessary to modify an existing parenting plan. This will require filing a modification case at the court in the county where the original parenting plan was ordered or request a transfer to another county if the child has lived in that county for six months or longer. Either parent has the right to file a modification. 

Changing a Parenting Plan in Texas

The initial parenting plan outlines the rights and responsibilities of each parent, including where the child will live, and which parent (or both) has the right to make the important decisions for the child. Every detail is covered in the parenting plan, including the amount of child support one parent will be required to pay the other. Material and substantial changes in circumstances of a parent or child may require a modification of the existing parenting plan, which requires court approval.

Is Your Parenting Plan Eligible for a Modification? 

Several matters will be evaluated by the court in determining whether an existing parenting plan can be modified. These include but are not limited to:

• A parent has given up possession of the child for six months or longer.
• Material and substantial changes in circumstances related to income requires a reduction or increase in child support.
• A change in the child’s health or educational needs requires an increase in child support.
• A grandparent or other non-parent is caring for the child.
• One parent plans to move away, and the parenting plan regarding custody and visitation must be changed.
• A parent is incarcerated or convicted of child abuse.
• You have concerns that the other parent will move away with the child and need to modify the order to add a geographic restriction to the order.
• One parent has remarried with a negative impact on the quality of life of the child.
• The child is 12 years old or older and wants to live with the other parent. The judge makes this determination by interviewing the child and may or may not approve the change.