Dallas Family Law Attorney: Modifications and Enforcement
Relocation • Change in Child Custody • Contempt of Court
As circumstances change over time, you may need to go back to court to alter child custody or child support accordingly. Or you may need the court's help to enforce existing orders for visitation or financial support.
At the law firm of Lisa E. McKnight, P.C., you have the knowledgeable advice and courtroom muscle of an experienced family law trial lawyer. In nearly two decades of practice, Dallas custody lawyer Lisa McKnight has handled every scenario in post-divorce modifications and contempt actions.
From our office in east Dallas, we represent mothers and fathers in Dallas County and Collin, Denton and Rockwall counties. Contact us today for a, confidential phone consultation.
Custody Modification
We have successfully petitioned for — and defended against — sole custody, reversal of primary custody or increased visitation. The court requires a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- An older child who wants to live with the other parent
- A change in schools, trouble at school or declining grades
- Addiction, child abuse or domestic violence
- Remarriage and friction with the step-family
- A new job or work schedule
Parental Relocation
Move-away cases are among the most contentious and challenging cases. The parent wishing to relocate with the children beyond the geographical restrictions of a Texas custody order bears the burden of proving why the move is necessary and how it serves the best interests of the child.
The judge or jury is more likely to consent if the move is for employment opportunities, better education for the child, or to live closer to a family support network. Relocating because of a love interest, to get away from the other parent, or for a "fresh start" are not compelling reasons.
The court will also consider the non-custodial parent's relationship with the child and custodial parent's level of cooperation. Has the parent failed to exercise visitation or is he/she actively engaged in the life of the child? Is the relocating parent likely to foster communication or isolate the child? Is the custodial parent willing to help with travel costs, reduce child support or give extra summertime and holiday visits?
Lisa McKnight is a board-certified* family law specialist. She will fight for you and your children and show you concrete steps to make the most favorable impression in court.
Interference With Visitation
If the other parent routinely defies the terms of the child custody order or refuses access to your child, we can help you document the violations and file contempt of court charges. For repeated interference with visitation rights, the court can award attorney fees and make-up visitation time, and can even put that parent in jail or reverse custody.
Child Support Modification or Enforcement
Child support can be revisited after three years or upon a substantial change in circumstances: a better job or big raise, job loss, a change in custody or visitation, or increased needs of the child. The McKnight firm can also step in if the other parent is not paying court-ordered support. There are many tools, including wage garnishment, to secure unpaid child support.
When parenting disputes must be settled in court, you want the best representation possible to protect your interests. Call University Park parental relocation attorney Lisa McKnight at 214-528-4191 to discuss your situation and your options in a consultation.
* Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in the area of family law
