Life changes - Your court orders should too

Custody, support, and parenting orders reflect your life at a specific point in time. But life doesn’t stand still — jobs change, kids grow, parents relocate, and circumstances evolve. When they do, your legal arrangements may no longer fit your reality. At Plains Legal Group, we help you modify existing orders with clarity and strategy, so your court documents reflect the life you’re living today — not the past.

Modification Is More Than a Legal Change

Life Moves Forward orders can too

Whether it’s a new job, a change in parenting responsibilities, or a shift in your child’s needs, life never stays the same. Modification is about ensuring your legal agreements evolve with you, so your family’s stability and future are protected.

Clarity in Court Standards

Nebraska law requires a “material change in circumstances” to modify custody, parenting time, or support. This can mean anything from a parent relocating to income changes or new safety concerns. We explain what qualifies, prepare the right documentation, and build a case the court will take seriously.

Resolution First - Advocacy Always

We aim to resolve modifications through negotiation and mediation, saving time, money, and stress. But if the other parent refuses to be reasonable — or if your child’s stability is at risk — we’re prepared to advocate for you in court. Our focus is on protecting your family today, while setting you up for tomorrow.

The Nebraska Modification Guide

How to Change Your Custody, Support, or Parenting Time Order

Introduction: Life Changes—Your Court Orders Can Too

A custody or child support order reflects your life at a specific moment in time. But life moves forward. Jobs change. Kids grow up. Parenting dynamics shift. And when they do, you might need a new legal arrangement to match your new reality.

At Plains Legal Group, we help parents across Nebraska modify existing court orders to better reflect their current circumstances—without unnecessary conflict or delay. Whether you’re seeking more time with your children, adjusting to a new job, or responding to the other parent’s move or misconduct, this guide will walk you through the process.

We’re here to help you move forward, not stay stuck in the past.

What Can Be Modified?

In Nebraska, you can ask the court to modify:

  • Custody (legal or physical)

  • Parenting time (schedule changes, holidays)

  • Child support (based on income, expenses, or custody changes)

  • Medical support or insurance obligations

Spousal support (alimony) can also be modified—but only if your divorce decree allows it. We can review your decree and advise you.

Greg Lake | Founder

What the Court Looks For

To modify an order, you must show a material change in circumstances. Examples include:

  • A job loss or promotion

  • A child’s evolving needs

  • One parent moving far away

  • A significant change in parenting involvement

  • One parent violating the current order

  • New safety concerns (e.g., substance abuse, neglect, domestic violence)

Not all changes qualify. That’s where we come in. We’ll help you build a clear, well-supported case the court will take seriously.

Steps in a Modification Case

  1. Consult with an attorney to determine if your case meets the legal standard

  2. File a Complaint to Modify with the court

  3. Serve the other party and allow time for response

  4. Attend mediation (often required)

  5. Exchange updated financial or parenting records

  6. Negotiate a new agreement—or prepare for trial

  7. Finalize your new court-approved order

We handle modifications from start to finish. You’ll always know what’s next, and we’ll always be one step ahead.

Common Questions We Hear

“Can I get more time with my kids if I’ve been more involved lately?”
Yes—especially if it’s consistent and in the child’s best interests.

“He got a raise. Can I increase child support?”
Possibly. Nebraska child support is based on both parties’ incomes. We’ll run new calculations.

“She moved in with someone. Can I change custody?”
Only if it impacts your child’s stability or safety. We’ll help assess.

“My child wants to live with me. Does that matter?”
It may. Older children’s preferences can influence the court, but it’s one of many factors.

When to Settle vs. When to Fight

We always look for solutions first. Settling a modification means:

  • Faster resolution

  • Lower legal fees

  • Less stress for your kids

But if the other party won’t be reasonable—or the stakes are high—we’re fully prepared to go to court. We’ll present:

  • Updated parenting calendars

  • Expert recommendations (counselors, evaluators)

  • Financial changes and documentation

  • Witnesses who support your position

Protecting Yourself During the Process

  • Follow the current order until the court approves a change

  • Document everything—visits, pickups, missed exchanges

  • Stay child-focused in all communications

  • Avoid social media drama that can be used against you

Let us handle the legal strategy while you focus on parenting.

Bonus Checklist: Prepare for a Modification Case

Gather:

  • Current parenting schedule or order

  • Documentation of changes (employment, health, moves)

  • Child-related expenses (medical, daycare, activities)

  • Communication records (texts, emails, co-parenting apps)

  • Statements from teachers, doctors, counselors (if applicable)

Final Thoughts: Modify for a Better Future

Change is a part of life. When change impacts your family, you deserve court orders that reflect reality—not the past.

Whether you need more time, more support, or more protection, Plains Legal Group is here to help you move forward with strength and strategy.

Let’s secure the next chapter for you and your children.

This guide is for general education and is not legal advice. Every case is unique. Consult an attorney to discuss your situation.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (402) 603-1112

Address Office: 1299 Farnam St, Suite 370, Omaha Nebraska 68102