Massachusetts · Divorce and family law
Massachusetts child-custody modifications
General information about Massachusetts proceedings to modify child-custody and parenting-time orders.
Overview
Governing materials
Massachusetts court materials state that a custody or parenting-time arrangement may be changed when there has been a significant change in circumstances and the existing arrangement no longer meets the child’s best interests. Massachusetts Trial Court: Request a Change.
Massachusetts procedures distinguish requests to modify judgments, requests concerning temporary orders, and agreed changes. Filing, notice, service, affidavits, and proposed orders depend on the form of the request. Massachusetts law about modifications.
Court and agency record
Common record categories
- The existing judgment or temporary order
- Complaints, motions, affidavits, and proposed orders
- Parenting schedules and identified records
- Prior findings and related court reports
Primary references
Official sources
Disclaimer: This page provides general legal information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, rules, and procedures may change. Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.