How to Modify Your Divorce Agreement in Long Beach

Finalized your divorce but need to update custody, support, or property terms? You can modify your divorce agreement so it matches your life as it changes. Whether you need a minor scheduling tweak or a major change after a job or relocation, there are two main paths to get your judgment updated and enforceable.

What You Can Modify

• Child custody and visitation schedules – adjust parenting time when work or childcare needs change.
• Child support – modify amounts when income or the child’s needs change.
• Spousal support – in many cases spousal support can be revisited depending on circumstances and any prior agreements.
• Property and debt division – clarify or correct terms, or handle items that were missed at finalization.

Two Ways to Modify Your Agreement

There are two common ways to change a finalized divorce judgment in California:

1. Stipulated Agreement – When Both Parties Agree

If you and the other party agree on the new terms, a stipulated agreement is the simplest route. You draft the proposed changes, both sign, and file the stipulation with the court. When the judge approves and signs it, the updated terms become part of your court judgment.

If both parties agree, the process is straightforward and hassle-free.

Benefits of a stipulated agreement:

• No court hearing required in many cases.
• Faster and less stressful than litigated options.
• Lower cost – you avoid multiple attorney hours and court time.
• Complete control over the outcome since both parties negotiate the terms.

2. Request for Order – When You Cannot Agree

If the other party will not agree to the proposed changes, you must file a Request for Order – commonly called an RFO. The court will schedule a hearing where you present evidence supporting why the modification is necessary. The judge then decides whether to grant the requested change.

When to expect an RFO:

• Disagreement on custody or visitation changes.
• One party refuses to adjust child support despite a clear change in circumstances.
• Urgent matters where temporary orders are needed pending a final determination.

How the Process Works – Step by Step

1. Talk to the other parent or ex – many changes can be handled amicably if you start with a conversation.
2. Draft the stipulation or proposed order – put the agreed terms in writing so they are clear and enforceable.
3. File with the court – submit the stipulation for the judge to review and sign, or file an RFO if there is no agreement.
4. Judge signs the order – with a stipulation this often happens without a hearing; with an RFO you will attend a hearing and the judge will rule.
5. Serve and enforce – once signed, the modified judgment is enforceable like any other court order.

Real Example – A Long Beach Custody Change

Here is a common, practical example. A Long Beach couple needed to change their custody schedule because one parent took a new job with different hours. They reached an agreement, we drafted and filed a stipulated order, and the judge signed it without a hearing. No attorneys, no long delays, and the updated schedule became enforceable quickly.

Why Legal Formalities Matter

Any modification should be court-approved to be enforceable. An informal agreement between parents is not enough if one side later refuses to follow it. Filing the stipulation or going through an RFO creates a record and gives you the power of a court order if enforcement becomes necessary.

How Divorce661 Can Help

If you want to avoid the stress of drafting forms, handling court filings, and appearing in person, let us handle it for you. We offer:

• Flat-fee pricing – no hourly rates.
• 100 percent remote filing and electronic signatures.
• Court-approved modifications done right the first time.
• Help with custody, child support, spousal support, and other post-divorce changes.

Start the process quickly and correctly. Schedule your free consultation at Divorce661.com and let us guide you through drafting and filing your stipulation or Request for Order.

Next Steps

• If both parties agree, draft a clear stipulated agreement and file it with the court.
• If agreement is impossible, prepare and file a Request for Order and gather documentation for the hearing.
• Contact Divorce661 for assistance with drafting, filing, and making your modifications enforceable.

Modifying your divorce agreement should make life easier, not harder. With the right approach you can update custody, support, or property terms so your agreement reflects your current needs and provides peace of mind.