Life changes, and the family-court orders that once fit your situation may no longer work. Hinojosa Law Office, P.C., led by attorney Monica A. Hinojosa, helps parents and families in East Houston and across the greater Houston area seek modifications of Texas family-law orders. Se habla español.
Modifying a Texas Family-Law Order
After a court issues an order for custody, possession, or support, that order stays in effect until the court changes it. When circumstances change in a significant way, you can ask the court to modify the order so it reflects your family’s current situation.
The “Material and Substantial Change” Standard
To modify most family-law orders in Texas, you generally must show that there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order, and, for orders involving children, that the change you are requesting is in the best interest of the child. Examples can include a significant change in income, a move, changes in a child’s needs, or a change in a parent’s circumstances.
Modifying Conservatorship and Possession (Custody)
Parents sometimes need to change who has the right to decide a child’s primary residence, or to adjust the possession and access (visitation) schedule. Courts consider these requests based on the best interest of the child. You can learn more on our child-custody page.
Modifying Child Support
Child-support orders can also be modified. A Texas court may consider a support modification when there has been a material and substantial change, or when it has been at least three years since the order and the guideline amount would differ by a set threshold. See our child-support page for more on how support is calculated.
When and How to File
A modification begins by filing a request with the court that has continuing jurisdiction over your case, explaining what has changed and what you are asking the court to order. In some situations, temporary orders can address urgent issues while the modification is pending. Good preparation and documentation of the change are important.
Related Family-Law Matters
Modifications connect to several areas of family law. See our divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and guardianship pages, or our family-law services overview.
How Hinojosa Law Office, P.C. Helps
Attorney Monica A. Hinojosa helps clients pursue and respond to modification requests, working toward orders that fit your family’s current needs. We serve families throughout Houston, including the East Houston, Northshore, and Uvalde Road communities, in English and Spanish.
Meet attorney Monica A. Hinojosa, the Houston family-law attorney at Hinojosa Law Office, P.C.
Schedule a Consultation
To discuss modifying a family-law order with a Houston attorney, contact Hinojosa Law Office, P.C. today.
Hinojosa Law Office, P.C.
540 Uvalde Rd, Suite D, Houston, TX 77015
Phone: 713-455-3575
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This page provides general information about modifying Texas family-law orders and is not legal advice. Every situation is unique; please consult an attorney about your specific circumstances.