Is Your Arizona Parenting Plan Still Working?

Is your parenting plan still working? It might be time for a change.

When your life changes, your parenting plan may need to change too. For many parents, the hardest part is knowing when a change is big enough to address legally.

Parenting plans exist for a reason: to bring structure during a time of family transition. But life keeps changing. That change could mean a new job that changes their schedule, moving to a new affordable neighborhood in a new school district, or even moving out of state for a job relocation. 

Your parenting plan can also change if your child is struggling with school, transportation, routines, or needs that differ from those when the order was first written.

If your current order no longer seems to fit your or your child’s life, you may have options.

What You Should Know Before Making Changes To Your Parenting Plan

In Arizona, parents may be able to ask the court to modify legal decision-making or parenting time in certain situations. Relocation may also require specific steps, especially if a move is out of state or more than 100 miles within Arizona.

A change in your life does not automatically change a court order even if you work things out and come to a verbal agreement with the other parent. Before making plans that may affect your child’s schedule, school, transportation, or relationship with either parent, it can help to understand what Arizona law may require.

If the same concern keeps coming up, or if you know a major change is ahead, getting legal guidance early can help. 

That is where we come in, helping parents review what has changed, what the current order says, and what steps may be available under Arizona law. The goal is to approach the next decision with your child’s best interests at the center.

Kedia Law Resources For Arizona Parenting Plans

For parents who want to better understand parenting time, schedules, holidays, and planning considerations, the Arizona Judicial Branch offers a helpful guide called Planning for Parenting Time: Arizona’s Guide for Parents Living Apart. You can view it here.

This resource can be a helpful starting point, but it is not a substitute for legal advice about your specific situation. If you have any questions or if your parenting plan no longer reflects your child’s current needs, Kedia Law can help you understand the next step.