Life After Divorce: When Can You Modify Parenting Time or Support?

Introduction

Life rarely stays the same after a divorce. Jobs change. Children grow. Schedules shift. When those changes affect parenting time or financial support, existing court orders may no longer reflect what a family needs.

Illinois law allows certain family law orders to be modified when circumstances change. Understanding when a modification may be possible can help families plan ahead and avoid unnecessary conflict.

Modifying Parenting Time

Parenting time may be modified when there is a significant change in circumstances and the requested change serves the child’s best interests.

Examples of changes that may support a modification include a parent relocating, changes in a child’s school or medical needs, or ongoing issues with an existing schedule. Courts focus on stability for the child while also considering whether adjustments are needed to support the child’s well-being.

Minor inconveniences or temporary issues are usually not enough. The change must be meaningful and supported by evidence.

Modifying Child Support

Child support may be modified if there is a substantial change in income, employment, or parenting time.

This may include job loss, a significant increase or decrease in earnings, or changes in how much time a child spends with each parent. Support orders are based on current circumstances, not past conditions, so updates may be appropriate when financial realities shift.

Courts review financial documentation and apply state guidelines when determining whether a modification is warranted.

Enforcement Issues

When court orders are not followed, enforcement options may be available.

Enforcement actions may address missed child support payments, repeated parenting time violations, or failure to comply with other court-ordered obligations. Addressing enforcement issues early can prevent problems from escalating and help protect the stability of existing arrangements.

How Modifications Fit Into Your Family Law Roadmap

Post-divorce issues do not end when a judgment is entered. Modifications and enforcement matters are part of the long-term family law roadmap, allowing families to adapt as circumstances evolve over time.

Revisiting court orders when appropriate can help maintain clarity, accountability, and consistency for both parents and children.

Frequently Asked Question

When can I ask the court to change parenting time or child support?

You may request a modification when there is a substantial change in circumstances that affects parenting time or financial support. Each situation is different, and courts evaluate whether the requested change is reasonable and appropriate under current conditions.

Please call Larimer Law LLC today at (773) 902-0200 or email Angela@larimerlawllc.com to set up a free consultation with Angela Larimer to explore your specific family law needs.  We are here for you when you need us!