Modification and Contempts
Modification Attorneys in Middlesex County
Modification Representation Based Out of Burlington
Massachusetts courts recognize that circumstances change over time. A family court order issued at the time of your divorce or child custody case may no longer reflect your family's reality. Significant changes in your life, your child’s needs, or your financial situation can mean current arrangements no longer work. You can ask the court to modify a court order to address these developments. You also have options if someone violates a court order, such as a parent failing to pay child support required by law.
If you need guidance with modifying or enforcing family court orders, turn to Ryder & Phelps, P.C. Our firm has supported clients in divorce, child custody and visitation, child support, and spousal support/alimony matters throughout Westford, Concord, Lexington, Arlington, Andover, and Burlington. With decades of experience, our attorneys understand the relevant laws, court procedures, and the best way to present your situation to the court. Whether you want to pursue or contest a modification or enforcement, we handle your case with diligence and professionalism.
Reach out to Ryder & Phelps, P.C. to book a confidential consultation with a modification and contempt attorney by calling (978) 381-1660 or contacting us online.
Why Choose Ryder & Phelps for Your Mediation Needs?
Resolving family conflicts often benefits from skilled mediation. Our team of mediation lawyers in Middlesex County offers personal attention and guidance at every step. Here’s why you can feel confident choosing us:
- Experienced Professionals: Our mediators know the law and use proven conflict resolution methods to help all parties feel heard in a fair process.
- Tailored Solutions: We believe every situation is different. Our team builds mediation strategies that address your particular challenges and objectives.
- Confidential Environment: Mediation sessions remain private. We foster communication in a secure setting.
- Holistic Support: Beyond legal guidance, our attorneys provide emotional and practical support through difficult conversations about changes or disputes.
- Proven Track Record: We have helped many families resolve disputes efficiently and respectfully, avoiding unnecessary delays or escalation.
Our team frequently participates in mediation sessions at Middlesex Probate and Family Court, which serves Burlington. We pay attention to how local judges handle modification cases and apply practical knowledge for clients dealing with unique regional factors. For families in Burlington, close proximity to the courthouse and awareness of area-specific issues—like school calendars or major employers—allow us to recommend solutions that fit your day-to-day life.
Choosing Ryder & Phelps means working with a partner dedicated to your best interests and committed to finding solutions that benefit everyone involved. Let us help you move forward productively.
What to Expect During the Modification Process in Burlington
When considering a modification, you will interact with the Middlesex Probate and Family Court, which oversees all family law changes for Burlington and the surrounding region. The process starts by submitting a Complaint for Modification. After submission, the court assigns a hearing date where each party presents evidence about the changes they’ve experienced. You should collect recent financial records, medical documents, or schedules that show your altered needs. The court reviews these details, especially if the request involves child custody or support. In cases involving children, the court might ask a professional to review the family’s situation or suggest local resources such as mediation or parenting courses. Familiarity with these local procedures and possible timelines allows families in Burlington to better prepare and feel more comfortable as they move through the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a family court modification take in Middlesex County?
Most modification requests in Middlesex County take several months from filing to final decision, depending on court schedules and the complexity of the case. Contested cases can take longer than uncontested changes.
Can I request temporary changes while my modification is pending?
In some cases, the court allows temporary orders while a modification request is under review. These temporary orders give families stability until the judge makes a final decision.
Do I need to appear in person at the Burlington courthouse for my modification case?
Many hearings still require in-person attendance, especially if you need to present evidence or give testimony. In certain situations, like procedural hearings, remote participation may be possible, but you should check with the court before your scheduled date.
Modifications of Court Orders
The need to modify a family court order can be done by filing a Complaint for Modification with the court.
If you live in Burlington or anywhere in Middlesex County, you typically file your Complaint for Modification in Middlesex Probate and Family Court, which serves this community. This court considers issues unique to local families, such as changes in work schedules, rising living costs, or school transitions that may impact parenting plans. Understanding local court practices and expectations can make the process smoother and help avoid unnecessary delays.
These Complaints can seek the following:
- Modification of a custody order or parenting plan
- Modification of a child support order
- Modification or termination of spousal support
- Termination of a child support order
Modifications can generally only be made when a material and substantial change in circumstances can be shown to the court that warrants such a change. For example, a job loss on the part of a supporting parent may lead to his or her inability to keep up with existing child support payments or a parent may request a change in a parenting plan based on his or her work schedule or the child’s needs.
To support your request, gather documentation that explains your situation. You might collect current pay stubs, medical records, school reports, or other records that highlight how your circumstances have changed since the original order. The court carefully reviews this evidence to decide if a change is justified.
In some cases, you may be able to make changes by filing a motion as in the following:
- Filing a Motion for Reconsideration. This requests your family court judge who issued your court order to change it based on such issues as newly-discovered evidence, legal errors, or another legal defect, such as fraud.
- Filing a Motion to Set Aside. This is a request to the judge to “vacate” or remove a current custody or support order. This makes the rulings within it invalid.
To understand how you can pursue or contest a modification of any family court order, it is best to speak with one of our attorneys who can review the specifics of your case.
Factors That Can Influence Modification Outcomes in Burlington
Court orders address real-life changes families experience in Burlington. Major shifts, such as a parent relocating for a new job in the Greater Boston area, a child starting in a different school district, or fluctuations in a family’s monthly expenses, can all affect court decisions. Judges in Burlington weigh how a modification might impact a child's stability, connection to community, and ongoing access to both parents. If a parent works for one of the region's major employers or faces a sudden change in work schedule, these factors may come up in court. Providing up-to-date evidence and clear information helps the judge understand your family’s current needs and circumstances.
-
“It was a pleasure working with Jordan and the firm” - Megan
-
“10/10 would recommend Ryder and Phelps!” - Paul B.
-
“Highly recommend!” - Jason H.
Contempt Order in Middlesex County
Sometimes a party in divorce, custody, or support orders will violate the terms of the court order. In these cases, the parent or former spouse of the violator can seek to enforce the order by filing a Complaint for Contempt. For example, if your spouse refuses to comply with the ruling for marital property division in the separation agreement, you have the right to seek this legal remedy. However, you will need to prove with clear and convincing evidence that the order was disobeyed.
When the court reviews a Complaint for Contempt in Middlesex County, the judge requires both parties to provide documentation and may hold a hearing at the local courthouse. Arrive prepared with official orders, records of missed payments, or written communication to support your position. Courts in the Burlington area often expect detailed evidence to ensure that any enforcement order matches the facts of the situation.
If the court finds the opposing party has violated the terms of an order, it can impose penalties or take corrective action to prevent future violations. Judges design these remedies to encourage compliance and protect the rights of those involved.
At Ryder & Phelps, P.C., we can represent you in both pursuing and defending against contempt orders.
For more information about modifications and contempt orders, please do not hesitate to book your appointment to speak with one of our modification attorneys today.