Ex-wife files a motion to modify after 4 years... now what?

I could use some advice. My ex-wife and I had a pretty amicable divorce in 2020. We wrote everything up ourselves without any lawyers. We share 50-50 legal and physical custody of our son, who spends three days a week with me and four days a week with her. Out of nowhere, four years later, she decides she doesn’t like the wording of the divorce decree that she helped create. In July 2024, she presented me with papers saying she intended to file a motion to modify. I honestly don’t think she expected me to get a lawyer and fight this, but I did. Since then, my lawyer and I haven’t heard anything back—no discovery, no updates, nothing. Our son will be 18 in June 2025, so I’m wondering if this is all going to be pointless. My lawyer thinks my ex might just be bluffing, but I’m curious if anyone knows if there’s a time limit for her to take action after filing a motion to modify.

Sounds like a frustrating situation. Usually, there are time limits for filing motions. Have you checked with your lawyer about that?

Ruby said:
Sounds like a frustrating situation. Usually, there are time limits for filing motions. Have you checked with your lawyer about that?

Yeah, my lawyer mentioned something about it but wasn’t specific. Just trying to get more info.

@Zade
Definitely look into it. You don’t want to be left hanging if she’s just trying to stall.

I had a similar issue with my ex. In Missouri, if a motion is filed, there’s usually a timeline for the court to act. You might want to push for a hearing if nothing happens soon.

Aris said:
I had a similar issue with my ex. In Missouri, if a motion is filed, there’s usually a timeline for the court to act. You might want to push for a hearing if nothing happens soon.

Good to know! I’ll definitely mention that to my lawyer. I just want to get this resolved.

It’s odd that there’s been no follow-up after that long. Keep pushing for clarity. If she’s bluffing, she might back off if you show you mean business.

Frost said:
It’s odd that there’s been no follow-up after that long. Keep pushing for clarity. If she’s bluffing, she might back off if you show you mean business.

That’s what I’m hoping! Just want to ensure my son’s stability.

You’re doing the right thing by getting legal help. If your child is about to be 18, that changes a lot regarding custody issues.

Beth said:
You’re doing the right thing by getting legal help. If your child is about to be 18, that changes a lot regarding custody issues.

Exactly! I’m just trying to navigate this without too much drama.

It’s ridiculous when people try to change things after so long. Stay strong and keep your lawyer in the loop. You’ve got this!

Jagger said:
It’s ridiculous when people try to change things after so long. Stay strong and keep your lawyer in the loop. You’ve got this!

Thanks! I appreciate the support. Just trying to stay focused on what’s best for my son.