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Divorce Modification

You got divorced and the judge ruled. Time goes by and the terms of your divorce do not fit your life anymore, what can you do?

When you “finalize” your divorce, the Court will issue a Final Judgment. Often, if there are minor children involved, this Final Judgment will include a Parenting Plan as well as a Martial Settlement Agreement. These documents are considered part of the Final Judgement and will be enforced accordingly. Such documents are not to be changed without the approval of the Court.

Anything filed after the issuing of a final judgment is considered “post judgment."

Post Judgment are events that occur after a Final Judgment has been entered. Often the issues are dealt within the inside the original case. Such post judgment issues can include but are not limited to enforcement of the terms of the Final Judgment, contempt and modification. In this case, we are going to discuss modification of the terms contained in the Final Judgement/decree of divorce. Frequently, the petitioning party will find a modification case for the terms of the Final Judgment of their divorce.

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What Is Divorce Modification?

Modification is when a party seeks to permanently change a final Court Order or Judgment. Parties can often choose to mediate the issues to be changed and are able to sign an agreement to change the original terms of the Final Judgment without the significant involvement of the court. Many times, the parties will attend mediation or alternative dispute resolution.

In order to modify the Final Judgment in Florida for a divorce, there must be a substantial change in circumstances. When a party petitions the Court to change the terms of their Final Judgment, they can move to change matters such as child support, alimony, child custody, and mother collateral matters. There is a three-part standard to show a substantial chance in circumstances;

  • First, there must be a substantial change in circumstances.
  • Second, that the change was not contemplated at the time of Final Judgment.
  • Third, the change is sufficient, material, involuntary, and permanent in nature. Pimm v. Pimm, 601 So. 2d 534, 535 (Fla. 1992).

Generally, the same standard of a substantial change in circumstances applies to non-children related issues. Proving a substantial change of circumstance is often where the litigation takes places regarding a modification case. Some examples of substantial changes in circumstance include but are not limited to, job loss, drug and alcohol abuse issues, retirement, and other changes in circumstance.

The Court though often requires more proof if a party loses their job prior to granting a modification. For example, the change in income from a loss of job often needs to be permanent and you cannot find employment within the same or similar field. In Manning v. Manning, the Court found, “former husband failed to show that reduction of his income was permanent, as required to obtain modification of child support; although former husband lost his job and ultimately accepted permanent employment that paid less money, he accepted lower-paying permanent job in exchange for benefits and possibility of financial improvement within six months, indicating that even former husband believed that his circumstances would improve within relatively short period of time.” Manning v. Manning, 600 So.2d 1274 (Fla. 1st DCA, 1992). 

In Manning v. Manning, the husband was fired from his job and was able to obtain employment that paid him half of what he had normally been paid prior to being fired. Id. Voluntary unemployment or voluntary underemployment is not considered a valid ground for modification. “Change in circumstances justifying modification of child support obligation does not exist when parent obligated to pay child support attempts to avoid or reduce that obligation by voluntarily becoming unemployed or underemployed.” Burdette v. Burdette, 691 So. 2d 862 (Fla. 5th DCA 1996).

When it comes to alimony, “under Florida law, the court may modify an order of … alimony by increasing or decreasing the … alimony retroactively to the date of the filing of the action or supplemental action for modification as equity requires, giving due regard to the changed circumstances or the financial ability of the parties ….§ 61.14(1)(a), Fla. Stat. (2016).” See also, Nuttle v. Nuttle, 257 So.3d 1084 (Fla. 4th DCA 2018). Alimony is a bit different from other factors which can be modified as alimony can be changed due to the spouse being supported entering another relationship in which he/she is being supported. Pursuant to Fla. Stat. § 61.14(1)(b) The court may reduce or terminate an award of alimony upon specific written findings by the court that since the granting of a divorce and the award of alimony a supportive relationship has existed between the obligee and a person with whom the obligee resides. The burden is on the obligor to prove by a preponderance of the evidence that a supportive relationship exists and that alimony should be terminated. Evidence to show that the supported parent is in a relationship in which he/she is being supported include but are not limited to; (1) how the supported parties holds themselves out to be “married”, (2) the period in which the supported spouse has resided with the other person in a permanent place of abode, (3) the extent to which the parties have pooled their income, (4) the extent to which the parties have supported each other and many other factors. Id.

Additionally, in order to prove that the party should be able to obtain modification when the petitioning party retires, the court will take into consideration whether retirement was voluntary, the court must consider the payor’s age, health, and motivation for retirement, as well as the type of work the payor performs and the age at which others engaged in that line of work normally retire. Pimm v. Pimm, 601 So. 2d 534, 535 (Fla. 1992). Voluntary retirement is not grounds for a modification of final judgement. “Voluntary retirement cannot be considered change of circumstance which would warrant modification of child support.” Id.

In order to change non-monetary issues relating to a shared minor child, the modification must not only be a substantial change in circumstance, but the modification must also be in the best interest of the child. Often, custody of the child is at issue or relocation of the child is the issue at hand to be changed. The threshold question when modification of child custody is sought is whether there has been a substantial, material change in circumstances since entry of the divorce decree. Ogilvie v. Ogilvie, 954 So. 2d 698, (Fla. 1st DCA 2007). “In seeking a modification of child custody, the movant must show both that the circumstances have substantially, materially changed since the original custody determination and that the child’s best interests justify changing custody.” Id.

Another more in-depth issue for modification is relocation of the minor child. “Relocation” means a change in the location of the principal residence of a parent or other person from his or her principal place of residence at the time of the last order establishing or modifying time-sharing, or at the time of filing the pending action to establish or modify time-sharing. A Petition for Relocation must be filed separately from a modification case even though it is technically a modification of the final judgment. Relocation of a minor child is even governed by another Florida Statute, 61.13001. Pursuant to Fla. Stat. 61.13001(2)(a), if the parents and every other person entitled to access to or time-sharing with the child agree to the relocation of the child, they may satisfy the requirements of this section by signing a written agreement that: (1) reflects consent to the relocation, (2) defines an access or time-sharing schedule for the nonrelocating parent and any other persons who are entitled to access or time-sharing; and (3) describes, if necessary, any transportation arrangements related to access or time-sharing.

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When a party want to modify their Final Judgment, they must file a petition with the Court specifying exactly what they want changed as well as specific reasons why it should be modified. It is important to be a specific as possible in order to avoid further litigation deterring the terms of the modification. Additionally, it is important to know what issues need to be filed separately, like the relocation of a minor child. Such modification issues can take as little as a few months and as long as a few years. Each case is individual in content as well as how much litigation will be required to change the terms of the final judgment. It is important to employ an attorney with experience in all of the above issues. Horton Law Group, P.A. has years of experience exercising the Florida law as well as aiding out clients in all issues regarding modification. Call today for your free consultation, 561-299-0018.

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Recently, I acquired my first home! I retained Ms. Horton to help me file Homestead for my property. I was unsure whether to put my Homestead property in my Revocable Trust – she provided me the benefits and consequences of doing so in a way that I actually understood. I trust her judgment. She was very patient and very sensitive to my needs. I look forward to working with her again in the future.

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Sommer and the Horton Law Group provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to any of my questions regarding a recent legal dispute. Ms. Horton provided me with excellent legal advice. She took the time to explain everything clearly to me. I found her to be reliable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend her without any reservations.

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Ms. Horton represented me in Guardianship case. It lasted several years. She kept me informed, never missed a deadline and was sensitive to my needs as it came to legal fees and costs. She was worth every penny spent on legal fees. I hope I don’t ever need legal counsel in the future, but if I do, Mr. Horton is the only lawyer I will call. Ms. Horton and her legal team are top notch professionals. I highly recommend the Horton Law Group.

Deborah B., Client

Ms. Horton represented me in a highly contested family litigation case and two other litigation matters. She was extremely attentive to my needs and incredibly aggressive in the courtroom. Litigation went on for over 2 years and she was there for me each and every time I needed her. She was always prepared for hearings. She won most if not all of them. There were boxes and boxes of exhibits that she used at the three day trial in this matter. During trial, Ms. Horton was calm, cool and collected. She did an amazing job with the many experts in this case. She destroyed the opposing party at trial. I felt very relieved and at ease with Mr. Horton in my corner. If you need a family law attorney and/or a trial attorney for that matter – call Attorney Sommer Horton. She is the best of the best. I would recommend her to anyone who is in need of a brilliant and aggressive attorney.

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I came to the law group with a problem from years ago… all I can say is that Sommer is amazing! Her staff is outstanding.. Sommer is such a bulldog and fought hard for me.. I’m so lucky I made the right choice. If you have legal problems or need legal advice call the Horton Law Group. You will be glad you did.

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Very professional and reliabe
Sommer and the Horton Law Group provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to any of my questions regarding a recent legal dispute.
Ms. Horton provided me with excellent legal advice. She took the time to explain everything clearly to me. I found her to be reliable, courteous and professional. I highly recommend her without any reservations.

Barbara C., Client

Let me start by saying, I have had Sommer represent me in several litigations. She has always been very dependable and honest about how she would handle my particular situations. Her dedication to my cases, even the small ones has always impressed me. Sommer is what I would describe as someone you always want on your side. She is tenacious in getting things done, on time and with as much success as she promised. I would highly recommend her for litigation cases as well as estate planning. I can only say again if you have Sommer you have one of the best to represent you.

Bill M., Client

I am completely satisfied with Ms. Sommer Horton, Esq. as my attorney, and for her law firm, the Horton Law Group, P.A. for their outstanding service and customer care. I highly recommend Ms. Horton as an attorney in Florida and her law firm. Ms. Horton and her staff are efficient and professional with understanding my case and not wasting any of my time or resources. Ms. Horton always promptly answers my calls and questions, and makes sure that I can review all work, and she helps me make timely decisions for my case. Ms. Horton and her staff are always courteous and prepared for my case in and out of court and I have been relieved by her as a trusted professional to ensure that my case is grounded in legal case law, Florida statutes, and working to come up with the best solutions for me.

Stephen W., Client

Sommer is a wonderful attorney, she’s the type of attorney that everyone wishes for, she’s dedicated, fierce, loyal to her clients and ensures that every option is explored to find the absolute best possible situation and outcome. Her attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond is what truly separates Sommer from the rest. I’m glad I found her and would definitely recommend to anyone that needs her services.

James G., Client

Sommer Horton has served as our general corporate counsel for the past several years.  She aggressively defended us in a frivolous lawsuit filed against us and won!   She has also represented us on several other corporate matters.  She has handled all of our business needs with great success. She is professional, dedicated and has a keen attention to detail. I fully and confidently recommend Sommer Horton and the Horton Law Group, P.A. for all of your professional and business needs.

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Horton Law Group represented me better than I could have ever imagined. My needs were put first and I was treated as a friend rather than a number.   My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured.  My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained.   My attorney, Sommer Horton, fought hard for me.   She went above and beyond and did everything she could to ensure a great outcome.  I couldn’t have asked for a better law firm or attorney. Thanks guys!!!

Barbara C., Client

I have known Sommer Horton for years.  I recently utilized her services to draft my family estate plans.  I was blown away with her knowledge of the law.  She explained the importance of each document in a way that I understood why I needed my estate plan.  She is affordable and efficient.  In fact, she is wonderful!  Ms. Horton really does care and she will make sure you, your family and your asserts are protected.   My recommendation would be that you call her if you need legal help.  She will take good care of you.

Madi P., Client

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Levance "Lee" B., Client

Ms. Horton and her entire team at Horton Law Group have been a life saver while going through an extremely contentious and difficult divorce. Ms Horton has fought for my children and me at every step. She is straightforward, diligent, realistic and someone you can trust. Thank you Sommer, Teresa, and the whole team!

Audrey M., Client

Over the past decade, Sommer Horton and her team at the Horton Law Group have treated me like family and have helped me through multiple legal matters. The entire team has always communicated quickly and efficiently while taking the time to help me thoroughly understand even the most complex legal jargon. They’ve consistently shown empathy and have always made time for me and my family through the process. Sommer Horton is Simply the Best. THANK YOU HORTON LAW GROUP!

Rick R., Client

It is not often that I take the time to compliment a Professional that I felt it was their job to do well to begin with. However, it was a pleasant surprise to deal with someone who went far beyond my expectations and performed as well as you in preparing my Estate Planning. I also appreciate that your billing was as reasonable as it was. Most people expect that “sticker shock” when dealing with Lawyers and Accountants. I found that your knowledge of Finances made it unnecessary for me to incur any further expense for accounting.
Thanks for the great job that you and your staff did.

Ralph B., Client

Serving as a Successor Trustee with several litigation cases pending, having an attorney working diligently for your client is of utmost importance. Sommer Horton was that attorney. Regardless of the nature of the situation, Sommer was there to support and advise not only my client, but myself as well. She and her team worked meticulously to delve into the issues so that our client’s interest was best represented. Her efforts were rewarded with favorable outcomes for our client, that is what we call a win, win. Sommer Horton and the Horton Law Group, P.A. were amazing, I highly recommend them.

Marline L., Client

I have worked with Sommer from Horton law group on several occasions over the past 7 years. She strikes the right balance between aggressive and realistic. Sommer is knowledgeable, confident and unflappable. The perfect team to walk with you through difficult circumstances.

Margarita K, Client
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