Shreveport Modification Attorney

Helping You Update Unworkable Court Orders

Life rarely looks the same years after a divorce or custody judgment. New jobs, changing incomes, school schedules, health issues, and remarriages can make an old court order impossible to live with. If your existing judgment no longer fits your reality, a divorce modification attorney can help you explore your options.

At Ryan E. Gatti, Attorney At Law, we work with parents and former spouses in Shreveport who feel stuck with orders that no longer seem fair or workable. We understand how draining it is to think about returning to court after a difficult divorce or custody case, and we know your first priority is your children’s stability and your financial security.

Our firm is led by attorney Ryan E. Gatti, who has lived and worked in this community his entire life. Our team focuses on family law and is committed to clear communication, patient listening, and walking Louisiana families through each step of the modification process.

Call (318) 633-0186 to talk with our team today.

What is Modification?

In family law, a modification refers to a legal change to an existing court order. Family court orders, such as those related to custody, support, or visitation, are not necessarily permanent. If there has been a significant change in circumstances, Louisiana law allows parties to request a modification to better reflect the current needs of the parties involved.

Some changes are minor, while others may significantly affect your family’s life. Understanding your options and the legal standards for modifications is crucial to achieving a favorable outcome.

Common Types of Modifications

Family law modifications can involve several areas, depending on the circumstances. Common modifications include:

• Child Custody Modifications: A custody modification may be requested if a parent’s circumstances have changed, such as relocation, changes in work schedule, or concerns about the child’s well-being. Courts consider the best interest of the child when evaluating custody modifications.
• Child Support Modifications: Child support orders can be adjusted if there has been a substantial change in either parent’s income, employment status, or the child’s needs. Modifying child support ensures that financial responsibilities remain fair and appropriate for both parents and the child.
• Spousal Support (Alimony) Modifications: Spousal support orders can be modified if there has been a change in financial circumstances for either spouse. This may include changes in employment, health, or other relevant factors affecting the ability to pay or need for support.
• Visitation Schedule Modifications: Visitation modifications can be requested if the original schedule is no longer practical due to changes in the child’s schedule, a parent’s work hours, or other factors affecting regular visitation.

How to Modify a Family Court Order in Louisiana

Navigating the modification process in Louisiana can be complex, but an experienced Shreveport modification lawyer can help you every step of the way. Here is an overview of the process:

Step 1: Determine the Basis for Modification

Louisiana law requires a substantial change in circumstances for most modifications. This may include changes in income, health, living arrangements, or other factors impacting custody, support, or visitation.

Step 2: File a Petition for Modification

To request a modification, you must file a formal petition with the court that issued the original order. The petition should outline the reasons for the requested modification and provide supporting documentation.

Step 3: Serve the Other Party

The other party must be properly notified of the petition. They have the opportunity to respond and may agree, contest, or propose a different modification.

Step 4: Mediation or Court Hearing

Many courts encourage mediation to reach an agreement before a hearing. If an agreement cannot be reached, a court hearing will be scheduled where both parties can present evidence and testimony.

Step 5: Court Decision

The court will evaluate the evidence, consider the best interest of the child (if applicable), and issue a ruling. If the modification is granted, the court will update the existing order to reflect the changes.

Modification FAQs

How often can I request a modification?

There is no strict limit on how often you can request a modification, but you must demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances each time.

Do both parents have to agree to a modification?

Not necessarily. While mutual agreement can simplify the process, a court can modify an order even if only one parent requests the change, provided the legal standard is met.

How long does a modification take?

The timeline depends on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and whether the parties reach an agreement. Some modifications may be completed in a few months, while contested cases may take longer.

Can child support or custody be lowered or increased?

Yes. Child support and custody arrangements can be adjusted to reflect changes in financial circumstances, living situations, or the child’s best interest.

Do I need a lawyer for a modification?

While it is possible to file a modification without a lawyer, having an experienced Shreveport modification attorney significantly improves your chances of a favorable outcome, ensures proper legal procedure, and helps protect your rights.

How Our Firm Handles Modifications

Returning to court can feel overwhelming, especially when you have already lived through a divorce or custody dispute. Our goal is to make the process as clear and manageable as possible. We start by getting to know you, your children, and what has changed since your last judgment, then we explain your options in plain language.

During an initial consultation, we typically review your existing order and discuss what is not working. We ask focused questions about your schedule, your children’s needs, your income, and any agreements or conflicts with the other party. From there, we talk honestly about what the law allows, what evidence you might need, and what the next steps could look like in the courts that serve this area.

Our firm has deep experience with Louisiana family law and local procedures. Because Ryan Gatti has lived and worked in Shreveport and Bossier City his entire life, we understand how local court practices and expectations can affect the timing and strategy of a modification case. Our team also includes professionals with prosecutorial backgrounds, which helps us prepare carefully for hearings when a judge must decide the outcome.

We know that many families hope to reduce conflict, not fan the flames. Whenever it is appropriate, we work to resolve modification issues through negotiation or agreement that can be presented to the court. If a hearing is needed, we prepare you for what to expect, from testimony to possible outcomes, so you are not walking into the courtroom with unanswered questions.

When we handle a modification case, our process often includes:

• Reviewing your prior judgment and any later orders in detail
• Gathering information and documents that show what has changed
• Discussing your goals and potential options under Louisiana law
• Communicating with the other party or their counsel when appropriate
• Preparing filings, evidence, and you for any necessary court hearings

Throughout each step, we focus on communication. We strive to answer your questions, return your calls, and explain what is happening so you feel supported, not left in the dark.

When you are ready to talk about your options, reach out to our office to schedule a time to speak with us about your situation and goals.