How to Modify Your Divorce Agreement in San Bernardino County

Hi, I’m Tim Blankenship with Divorce661. If your circumstances have changed since your divorce was finalized—whether incomes shifted, custody needs evolved, or support amounts need adjusting—you may be able to modify your divorce agreement in San Bernardino County. Below I’ll walk you through the practical steps, explain the difference between an agreed modification and a court motion, and share how we help clients get changes approved quickly and correctly.

Why you might need a modification

Life doesn’t stop after a divorce. Common reasons people request modifications include:

• Job loss or a significant change in income
• Changes in the child’s needs, schooling, or schedule
• Relocation or new work hours affecting parenting time
• Changes in health or other long-term circumstances

If your court order no longer reflects your reality, updating it can protect you legally and financially.

Two paths to modify an order: agreed vs. contested

The route you take depends on whether both parties agree to the change.

1. Agreed modification (stipulated agreement)

If you and your ex-spouse are on the same page, a stipulated agreement is the fastest, simplest, and most affordable option. Here’s how it works:

1. You and the other parent/spouse reach an agreement about the new terms (support amount, custody schedule, etc.).
2. We draft a stipulated agreement and the necessary court forms that comply with San Bernardino County requirements.
3. Both parties sign the documents and we file them with the court for the judge’s approval.
4. No court hearing is typically required—once the judge signs, the modification becomes an enforceable court order.

Because there’s no hearing, this route is quicker and less expensive. I recently helped a San Bernardino client who lost their job and needed a reduction in spousal support. Both parties agreed, so we drafted a new support agreement, filed it, and had it approved without anyone stepping foot in court.

2. Contested modification (Request for Order – RFO)

If you and your ex can’t agree, you’ll need to ask the court to decide. In California that process is called filing a Request for Order (RFO). Key points:

• An RFO is a formal motion asking the judge to modify an existing order (child support, custody, visitation, spousal support, etc.).
• You must prepare and file the motion along with supporting documents (income declarations, proof of changed circumstances, parenting plans, and other evidence).
• Both parties will receive notice and will attend a hearing where each side presents their case.
• The judge evaluates the evidence and decides whether to grant, deny, or modify the requested relief.

Contested modifications require more time, preparation, and court appearances, so having experienced help can make a big difference.

What we handle for you

At Divorce661 we help with both agreed modifications and contested RFOs. Our services include:

• Evaluating whether your situation qualifies for a modification
• Preparing stipulated agreements or formal RFO paperwork
• Ensuring all documents meet San Bernardino County filing requirements
• Filing the forms with the court and handling administrative follow-up
• Preparing you for hearings if an RFO is required

We offer flat-fee services for predictable pricing, and we provide 100% remote services across California so you can handle everything without leaving home.

Practical tips before you start

• Talk with the other party first—if you can reach an agreement, you’ll save time and money.
• Document changes in income, employment, medical needs, or child care—evidence strengthens both stipulated agreements and RFOs.
• Understand that even stipulated agreements must be approved by the court to be enforceable.
• If you file an RFO, be prepared to attend hearings and present documentation supporting your request.

How to get started

If you need to update your divorce agreement and want it done quickly and correctly, schedule a free consultation with us. We’ll evaluate your situation, explain the best path forward (stipulated agreement or RFO), and handle the paperwork and filings so the process goes as smoothly as possible. Visit Divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation or call our team for next steps.

Final thoughts

Modifications are common and entirely normal—courts expect life to change. The key is choosing the right process for your situation: if both parties agree, a stipulated agreement is the fastest route; if not, an RFO gives the court a chance to decide. Either way, having the right paperwork and guidance saves time, reduces stress, and helps ensure the new order is legally binding.

If you have questions or want help navigating a modification in San Bernardino County, I’m here to help.

Tim Blankenship, Divorce661 — Schedule your free consultation at Divorce661.com