Modification and Enforcement

What to Do When a Family Court Order No Longer Works

New Jersey family law allows for the likelihood that a court order for support or custody might have to be modified based upon changed circumstances. It also acknowledges that the orders sometimes need some teeth to assure compliance. If you need a lawyer's advice about the enforcement or modification of a child custody or support order, or if you face serious penalties for defaulting on alimony or child support obligations, contact the Law Office of Gary J. Natale in West Orange.

We can handle either side of a proposed modification in Essex County

A substantial change in circumstances is the showing that a divorced person must make to support an order granting a proposed modification of alimony, child support, or any other continuing obligation following the divorce.

If you're the one who needs the adjustment, we can advise you whether your change in circumstances is substantial enough to justify the trouble of seeking the modified order. If the modification is proposed at your expense, we can help you oppose the motion or limit its effects, depending on the facts of your case.

Either way, we'll work closely with you to make sure that your interests are fully protected both in negotiations and in court.

Need help with a family court enforcement problem?

Your rights are only as good as your practical ability to enforce them. If your former spouse is in chronic or continuing arrears of spousal support or child support obligations, the very real threat of garnishment, attachment, sale of assets, or even jail might lead to positive results. We can document your claim to the support arrears and present it for maximum effect both to the other party and if necessary in court.

We also defend people charged with owing support arrears in family court enforcement proceedings. Our goal will be to get you headed toward full compliance on terms you can live with.

For reliable advice and skilled representation on any modification or enforcement problem, contact New Jersey family law attorney Gary Natale in West Orange.