Every state has slightly different child custody laws that govern families. If you are a parent in the state of Louisiana and want to make changes to an existing child custody order, it is important that you learn more about how the laws work in the state.
Louisiana, like many other states, has adopted the Uniform Child Custody Act (UCCA). This act is in place to guide states’ laws and best practices and is particularly helpful when there is a child custody dispute that takes place across state lines.
What is needed to start a child custody modification?
First of all, it is important to note that a child custody modification is only possible if there has been a significant change of circumstances. If the family circumstances are exactly the same as what they were when the original child custody ruling was made, you cannot request a modification. More importantly, you must specify a reason why the situation has changed, and why this is relevant and noteworthy for seeking a child custody modification.
For example, if you are not the primary custodian and currently have limited visitation with your child because of distance between homes, a good reason to request a child custody modification is when you move closer to him or her and can visit more often.
What is considered in a Louisiana child custody modification hearing?
The best interests of the child always come first in any child custody modification hearing. In general, courts believe that it is in the child’s best interests for him or her to have a strong bond with each parent, and they usually sway toward joint custody whenever possible. However, sometimes a parent may be a risk to a child, in which case the courts see it as their job to protect the child in question from any possible harm.
If you are a parent of minor children in the state of Louisiana, it is important to think about what has changed since your original child custody ruling and consider how these changes might convince the courts that a child custody modification is necessary.