Modification of Final Judgments in Madison, MS

Get Help From Our Madison Family Judgment Modification Lawyer

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, our Madison modification of final judgment attorneys have deep experience handling complex family law cases. We are here to protect your rights with experience advising clients with child custody, child support, spousal support, and a wide range of other family law matters. If you have any questions about modifying a final judgment, professional guidance is available. To arrange a fully private, no-obligation review of your family modification case, please do not hesitate to contact us today. 

What is a Modification of a Final Judgment (Family Law)?

Reaching the end of a family law case can bring a great sense of relief—especially if you are satisfied with the outcome. However, when parties have ongoing obligations to each other—a final judgment is not always the end of the case. In Mississippi, an ongoing family law obligation is subject to a modification, including child custody, child visitation, child support, and spousal support (alimony). 

To be clear, a modification is not the same thing as a re-hearing nor is it the same thing as an appeal. When a Mississippi court grants the modification of a final judgment it is not saying that the initial decision was wrongly decided. Instead, it is modifying the ongoing obligation because circumstances have changed and the previous judgment is no longer applicable or appropriate. 

Modifications and Mississippi Law: Substantial Change in Circumstances

Mississippi courts do not modify final family law judgments lightly. There is a presumption that the final judgment is appropriate. A court will only agree to modify a final order regarding child custody, child support, spousal support, or another ongoing family law obligation if the party seeking the modification can prove that there has been a substantial change in circumstances. What constitutes a substantial change in circumstances depends on a number of different factors, including the specifics of the case. 

When both parties agree that a modification is warranted, Mississippi courts are far more likely to approve the change. Indeed, courts grant parties wide discretion to come to their own agreement. If one party is seeking a family law modification over the objections of the other party, then the person who wants the modification will have the burden of proving that there has been a substantial change in circumstances. 

We Handle the Full Range of Family Law Modifications 

Our law firm is committed to helping clients resolve family law issues—so that they are in the best position to do what is right for themselves and their families. With deep experience providing family law representation across Madison County, we handle all the types of final judgment modification cases, including: 

• Modification of Child Custody: If a material change in circumstances affects a minor child, a parent may be entitled to a modification of a custody agreement or custody order. A substantial change in circumstances can come in many different forms—from a parental relocation to allegations of abuse or neglect by one of the parents. 

• Modification of Child Support: Child support agreements/orders are also subject to modification in Madison County. As a general rule, a modification will only be deemed proper if there is at least a 15 percent change (increase or decrease) in the amount of child support that would be awarded if the case started from the beginning. 

• Modification of Spousal Support (Alimony): In Mississippi, certain types of spousal support awards can be modified. Once again, a modification will only be considered if the party seeking the change can prove that there has been a substantial change in circumstances that was not anticipated at the time the judgment was entered. 

Why Work With the Madison Family Lawyers at Hancock Law Firm 

Modification of final judgment claims are complicated. Mississippi courts are often reluctant to modify judgment—but they can and will do so if good cause is demonstrated. At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we know how to navigate the claims process and we are ready to get started on your case right away. Among other things, our Madison family lawyers will: 

• Answer your questions and explain the law during a confidential case review; 
• Gather all of the legal documents and evidence you need to support your side of the case; 
• Represent you in settlement negotiations with the former partner and/or co-parent; and
• Take legal action to ensure that you are able to secure the best possible outcome. 

Get Help From a Family Law Attorney in Madison, MS

At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, our Madison family lawyers have the professional expertise and real-world legal experience to help you with all types of modifications. If you have any questions or concerns about modifying a final judgment in Mississippi, we are here to help. Contact our legal team now for a confidential appointment with an attorney. Our firm represents clients in Madison County, including Madison, Ridgeland, Canton, Flora, Sharon, Way, and Gluckstadt.