Custody Modification Legal Steps

Summary

In New Jersey, you can file a motion for post-judgment custody modification if circumstances change. For custody order violations, file for contempt of court. If the GAL is not performing adequately, request a review or a new GAL. To prevent your ex from discussing adult topics with your child, file a motion for a protective order or modify the custody agreement. Legal aid services like Legal Services of New Jersey and Volunteer Lawyers for Justice offer free or low-cost assistance for family law matters.

Full Conversation

Eve
Hi Eve! What legal issue are you dealing with? Let me know so I can provide some guidance.
Post judgment Modification of custody and contempt of court. My x moved our daughter an hour away during our custody case and I did not find out until * weeks after I signed the agreement. The GAL that's been assigned to investigate the case never investigated it. She has stayed on the case for over a year and a half. At one point my daughter told her therapist that her father and his girlfriend were so drunk that she was unable to wake them during his parenting time. Therapist contacted DCF. The GAL did nothing to protect my daughter. I keep reporting issues of my ex abusing my daughter and the GA
It sounds like a challenging situation, Eve. In New Jersey, you might consider these steps:
- File a Motion: You can file a motion for post-judgment modification of custody if circumstances have changed.
- Contempt of Court: If your ex is violating the custody order, you can file for contempt.
- Guardian ad Litem (GAL): You can request a review of the GAL's performance or request a new GAL.
Would you like more information on how to proceed with these steps?
Yes please
To proceed with these steps in New Jersey, consider the following:
- Filing a Motion: Visit the Family Division of the Superior Court to file a motion for custody modification. You may need to demonstrate substantial changes in circumstances.
- Contempt of Court: File a motion stating specific violations of the custody order. Documentation is key.
- Reviewing GAL: You can file a complaint with the court regarding the GAL's performance or request a new GAL.
Would you like information on contacting the Family Division or any other assistance?
What would I need to file with the court to get my ex to stop sharing adult issues and topics with our daughter such as things about our custody case and lies about my mental health that are negatively affecting her
Case Rating: *
To address your concerns, you may want to:
- File a Motion for a Protective Order: Request the court to prohibit your ex from discussing certain topics with your daughter.
- Modify Custody Agreement: Update terms to prevent inappropriate discussions.
Would you like more information on filing these motions?
Yes
Case Rating: *
This situation seems to be a high-value case, given the serious concerns about custody and the potential harm to your daughter. Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case? If so, could you please provide your phone number?
I can't afford an attorney
Case Rating: *
I understand the financial concern, Eve. You might consider reaching out to legal aid services in New Jersey that offer free or low-cost assistance for family law matters. They can provide guidance and support for filing motions and addressing your concerns. Would you like information on legal aid in your area?
That would be wonderful
Case Rating: *
Eve, here are some options for legal aid services in New Jersey that you might consider:
- Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ): Offers free legal assistance to low-income residents.
- Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ): Provides pro bono legal services for family law matters.
Would you like contact information for these services?
Yes
Case Rating: *
Here are the contact details for some legal aid services in New Jersey:
- Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ):
- Website: www.lsnj.org
- Phone: *-*-LSNJ-LAW (*-*-*-*)
- Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ):
- Website: www.vljnj.org
- Phone: (*) *-*
These organizations can help provide the support you need. Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with!
No I think that's everything Thank you so very much
Case Rating: *
You're welcome, Eve! If you have any more questions in the future or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Best of luck with your situation, and take care!