Life doesn’t stay the same, and sometimes, neither should your custody order. If your current arrangement no longer works for your child’s best interests, Indiana law allows you to ask the court for a change. But not every change in circumstance justifies a custody modification.
Major changes in the child’s environment
You can seek custody modification when something significant changes in your child’s life. This could mean a new school, a serious health condition, or a parent’s change in work hours. Indiana courts want stability for children, so the change must seriously impact their well-being. If your child’s living environment becomes unsafe or unstable, a modification may be appropriate.
Changes in a parent’s circumstances
A parent’s life can also trigger a review. If one parent develops a substance abuse issue or has been convicted of a serious crime, it may raise concerns. On the other hand, if the non-custodial parent has made positive life changes, they might request more parenting time or joint custody. The court looks at whether the new circumstances benefit the child.
Child’s age and preferences
As your child grows, their needs and opinions change. Indiana courts may consider a child’s preference, especially if the child is over 14. This isn’t a guarantee the court will follow their wishes, but it can support your request if other factors also point to a better arrangement.
When it’s worth pursuing modification
You should explore custody modification only when there’s a real, lasting change, not just a short-term issue or disagreement. The court must see that a modification serves the child’s best interests and that the existing order no longer meets those needs. If your concern fits that standard, modification may be the next right step.
