Post-Judgment Modification & Enforcement Attorneys
A final judgment is not always the end of a family law matter. When circumstances change or an order is not being followed, our attorneys handle modifications of alimony, child support, and timesharing — and enforcement of existing orders through contempt and other remedies.
Overview
Florida allows modification of alimony, child support, and parenting plans on a showing of a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances. Parenting plan modifications additionally require that the change serve the child's best interests. Property division in a final judgment is generally not modifiable.
Enforcement is the other side of post-judgment practice: when a party fails to pay support, transfers property contrary to the judgment, or interferes with timesharing, the court's remedies include contempt, income deduction orders, make-up timesharing, and attorney's fees.
How the firm approaches modification & enforcement
We evaluate modification requests against the statutory standard before filing — a petition that does not allege a qualifying change wastes time and invites a fee award against the filer. When the standard is met, we document the change thoroughly: financial records, school and medical records, and the history since the judgment.
On enforcement matters, we move efficiently. Support arrears, denied timesharing, and withheld property have practical consequences that compound the longer they go unaddressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a 'substantial change in circumstances'?
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A change that is significant, material, involuntary, and permanent — such as an involuntary job loss, a serious health event, or a substantial shift in a child's needs. Temporary or voluntary changes generally do not qualify.
Can a parenting plan be modified?
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Yes, on a showing of a substantial, material, and unanticipated change and proof that modification is in the child's best interest. The 2023 amendments to § 61.13 eased the standard for modifying timesharing in some circumstances.
What happens if my ex stops paying support?
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The court can enforce through contempt, income deduction orders, interception of tax refunds, license suspension, and judgments for arrears with interest.
Can property division be changed after the divorce?
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Generally no — equitable distribution is final. Limited exceptions exist for fraud, clerical error, and assets that were not addressed in the judgment.
Do I need an attorney for a modification?
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Modification and contempt proceedings carry strict procedural and evidentiary requirements, and the losing party may be ordered to pay the other side's fees. Experienced counsel materially affects the outcome.
Discuss your matter, in confidence.
Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (closed 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.)