ORDER MODIFICATION LAWYER IN OLYMPIA, WA

Understanding Order Modification in Washington State

Order modification attorney services in Olympia, WA, allow individuals to request changes to existing family court orders when significant life changes occur, such as job loss, relocation, or shifts in parenting needs. These services are governed by Chapter 26.09 RCW, and modifications ensure that orders remain fair and in the child’s best interests per RCW 26.09.002. In Thurston County, common triggers include income changes or parental fitness issues.

Courts require proof of a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was issued. Our firm helps clients in Olympia compile evidence to support their petitions, which helps avoid denials.

Types of Family Court Orders We Modify

As order modification lawyers in Olympia, we handle various types of modifications:

• Child Support: We adjust payments based on income changes under RCW 26.09.170. You can learn more on our child support page.
• Child Custody/Parenting Plans: We revise schedules for relocation or safety concerns per RCW 26.09.260. Please see our child custody page.
• Spousal Maintenance: We modify alimony due to financial shifts under RCW 26.09.170. Visit our spousal support page for details.
• Property Division: We address rare post-divorce changes if fraud is involved.
• Protection Orders: We extend or alter these for safety reasons, linking to our domestic violence page.

We tailor petitions to the specifics of Thurston County.

The Process of Filing for Order Modification in Olympia

Filing with an order modification attorney in Olympia includes the following steps:

1. Assess Changes: Document substantial circumstances that warrant a modification.
2. Prepare Petition: File the petition in Thurston County Superior Court.
3. Serve Notice: Inform the other party about the petition.
4. Response and Discovery: Exchange information and mediate if possible.
5. Hearing: The court reviews the case and approves if it is in the best interests.

People often ask how long an order modification takes in Washington. It typically requires 3-6 months.

Key Washington Laws Governing Order Modifications

Modifications require a substantial change in circumstances:

• RCW 26.09.260: This governs parenting plan modifications, prioritizing stability.
• RCW 26.09.170: This addresses support and alimony changes.
• RCW 26.09.191: This includes restrictions for abuse or history issues.
• Best interests are considered via RCW 26.09.002.

We monitor laws annually for any updates.

Requirements and Challenges for Modifying Orders

You must show a change such as an income drop greater than 25% or harm to the child. Challenges include proving necessity and dealing with parental opposition. In Olympia, courts favor stability, but we address this through strong evidence.

Costs and Timelines for Order Modification Cases in Thurston County

Filing fees are around $300, and attorney costs range from $2,000 to $5,000 for uncontested cases, with higher amounts for contested ones. Timelines may include a possible 90-day wait, and the total process lasts 3-12 months.

Why Choose Morgan Hill P.C. as Your Order Modification Attorney

With a 4.6 rating on Google from 230+ reviews, Morgan Hill P.C. offers personalized order modification services in Thurston County. We focus on efficient resolutions.