What constitutes a substantial change necessary for modifying a divorce decree?

The correct answer indicates that a substantial change is necessary for modifying a divorce decree. In family law, particularly concerning modifications of divorce decrees, a substantial change refers to a significant alteration in circumstances that affects the original terms of the decree, such as child custody, support payments, or visitation rights.

For a modification to be granted, the change must be more than temporary or minor. For instance, a change in financial status could reflect a job loss or significant increase in income, which may be viewed as substantial. However, it is not just any financial change that qualifies; it must significantly impact the needs of the parties or the children involved. Minor disagreements would not qualify as substantial changes that warrant a modification to the decree, nor would situations that are not materially significant to the terms of the divorce.

In essence, “substantial change” encapsulates any important evolution in the situation of either party that justifies the need to reconsider and potentially modify the divorce decree to better reflect the current realities.