If you are a divorced parent of a minor child who is going through a notable change in your employment or lifestyle, you may be able to request the court for an update of your custody order. This process helps provide the parents and their child with flexibility as they try to adjust to their new life situations.
When can I modify my custody order?
In Nevada, either parent may file a request for an update of custody if there has been a substantial change in the parent or child’s circumstances. These changes can pertain to one or more of the following:
- When one parent gets a 20% increase or decrease in income
- When one parent’s family expands
- When one parent moves to a new state
- When there is a change in the child’s educational or medical needs
- When there is evidence of family or domestic abuse
- When there is evidence of substance abuse
It is important to note that child custody modification decisions are reviewed by the Nevada family courts on a case-to-case basis and may take several months of evaluation and completion.
What are the requirements I need to submit?
You can download the “request for custody modification” e-form via Nevada’s Clark County website. If you are the custodial parent, choose the form titled custodial parent review & adjustment application. If you are the non-custodial parent, choose the form titled non-custodial parent review & adjustment application.
Aside from your completed form, you must also submit the following documents:
- Proof of income or pay stubs
- Proof of health insurance (Coverage and costs)
- Receipts of monthly childcare costs
- Birth certificate (If you have a new child)
You may submit your form and supporting documents via fax, email or in-person. After the county court receives them, the custody modification process may take up to six months.
By understanding the steps and the legal process involved, you can prepare your application and required documentation with ease and embrace your new situation with a clear mind.
