Can an Ex-Husband Change a Court Order Without My Consent?

It can take weeks, or or even months, before court orders are changed.

Court orders are legal mandates made by a judge and enforced through police action, if needed. Members of the public may petition these orders to be changed or rescinded, but only judges can grant or deny them.

Types

Court orders can be sought for many reasons. For example, an abused wife or girlfriend may request a restraining order against her husband or boyfriend to preserve her safety. Another court order often requested is one for alimony, spousal support or child support in the event of a divorce.

Modifications

Petitions to modify court orders can also be requested. For instance, an ex-wife may seek increased spousal support (formerly known as alimony) payments or a father may request to modify a child custody order so he has increased access to his children.

Considerations

Former spouses typically do not need the consent of their ex-husband or wife to request modification to a court order. If a spouse, or ex-spouse, does not wish to comply with the new order, he should request a hearing where he can state why this is the case.

References

• Legal Research: How to Find & Understand the Law; Stephen Elias; 2009