Co-parent filed an RFO for custody mods... what should I do about my own changes?

Seeking Advice
1

So my co-parent just filed an RFO for modifications to our child custody order, but I also want to make some changes that are in the best interests of the kid. Should I just put my requests in my reply declaration or do I need to file a separate motion? Any advice would be super helpful.

2

Oh, that’s a good question. I think you can put your change requests in your response to their RFO. That way, the court sees both your changes and theirs at the same time.

3

Wil said:
Oh, that’s a good question. I think you can put your change requests in your response to their RFO. That way, the court sees both your changes and theirs at the same time.

Yeah, that’s what I did. But also, you could file your own RFO if you want to make sure your changes get considered separately. Just depends on how you want to approach it.

4

Wil said:
Oh, that’s a good question. I think you can put your change requests in your response to their RFO. That way, the court sees both your changes and theirs at the same time.

True, but filing your own RFO might make it more official. I’d go for that if the changes are pretty important.

5

I think you could do both. Like, reply to their RFO but also file your own if you want to make sure your issues are treated separately. Not sure if it’s necessary though…

6

Zan said:
I think you could do both. Like, reply to their RFO but also file your own if you want to make sure your issues are treated separately. Not sure if it’s necessary though…

IDK, filing your own might be a good idea if you want the court to focus on your changes more directly. Couldn’t hurt to cover all your bases.

7

I was in a similar situation and just put everything in my response. Court still considered my requests, but I guess filing your own RFO just makes it clearer.

8

Ah, I didn’t even think about filing a separate RFO. I just replied to their petition and mentioned my changes there. Guess I might have missed an opportunity to make it more official…

9

AlimonyAdvocates1 said:
Ah, I didn’t even think about filing a separate RFO. I just replied to their petition and mentioned my changes there. Guess I might have missed an opportunity to make it more official…

Nah, you’re good! Filing separately might just give you a little more clarity, but your changes would still get considered either way. Don’t stress about it!

10

Just make sure you explain why your changes are in the best interests of the child. Court’s gotta see that!