Custody & Parenting Changes
Modifying custody, parenting schedules, or decision-making.
Modifications & Contempt
When life changes, or a court order is not being followed.
Family court orders are meant to last, but circumstances change, and orders are not always followed. Caldeira Law, P.C. helps clients in Hingham, across the South Shore, and throughout Massachusetts change existing orders and enforce them.
More than 25 years of family law experience. Practical advice. Careful preparation. Personal representation.
25+ Years ExperienceFormer SJC Law ClerkGuardian ad LitemAdjunct Professor
Changing or enforcing an order
Two different problems, both with a path forward.
A modification asks the court to change an existing order for custody, parenting time, child support, or alimony. Generally, the party seeking the change must show a material and substantial change in circumstances since the last order. For custody and parenting time, the court also considers the child's best interests.
A complaint for contempt asks the court to enforce an order that is not being followed, such as unpaid support or a violated parenting schedule. Generally, there must be clear proof of a clear order and of disobedience.
Until a court changes an order, it remains in effect. Do not stop following an order on your own.
Start with clarity
A consultation can help you understand:
- Whether a change in circumstances may support modification
- How soon to file, and why timing can matter
- Options when an order is being violated
- What evidence may be needed
- Whether agreement is possible without litigation
Post-judgment representation
Matters Caldeira Law handles.
Post-judgment issues are common, and many can be resolved without a full trial.
Child Support Changes
Increasing or decreasing support when circumstances change.
Alimony Changes
Modifying or ending alimony, including retirement and cohabitation issues.
Relocation
Requests involving a parent moving with a child.
Contempt Actions
Enforcing orders for support, parenting time, property, and other obligations.
Defending Contempt
Representation for clients facing a complaint for contempt.
Has something changed?
Timing can matter. Get advice early.
In many cases, changes to support take effect only after a request is filed. A consultation can help you understand your options and how soon to act.
Experience matters
More than 25 years of family law experience.
Attorney Charlene A. Caldeira brings more than 25 years of experience representing clients in Massachusetts family law matters. Her background includes service as a law clerk to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, court-appointed work, teaching, and continuing legal education.
That depth of experience informs how Caldeira Law approaches post-judgment matters: understanding the law, identifying practical solutions, and preparing carefully for every stage of the matter.
Meet Charlene CaldeiraThe process
How a post-judgment matter may proceed.
Every case is different. Understanding the general stages can make an unfamiliar process more manageable.
Review
Reviewing the existing judgment or order and what has changed.
Strategy
Deciding whether to seek modification, contempt, or both, or to try to reach agreement.
Filing
Preparing and filing the complaint and supporting financial or factual information.
Resolution
Resolving the matter by agreement or by the court's decision.
Hingham & the South Shore
Representation close to home.
Caldeira Law is based in Hingham and represents family law clients throughout the South Shore and Massachusetts, including individuals from Cohasset, Scituate, Norwell, Hanover, Weymouth, Quincy, Braintree, Milton, Hull, Marshfield, Duxbury, Pembroke, and surrounding communities.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions.
What counts as a material change in circumstances?
It depends on the type of order and the facts. Examples may include significant changes in income, employment, health, a child's needs, or a parent's living situation.
Can I stop paying support if I lose my job?
No. The existing order remains in effect until the court changes it. If your circumstances change, it is generally important to seek a modification promptly.
Can a custody order be changed?
Yes, when there has been a material and substantial change in circumstances and the change is in the child's best interests.
What happens in a contempt case?
The court considers whether there was a clear order and whether it was disobeyed. If contempt is found, the court may order remedies such as payment of amounts owed and, in some cases, attorney's fees.
What if I am accused of contempt?
It is important to respond promptly. There may be defenses, including an inability to comply, and the facts matter.
This information is general and is not legal advice. Every situation is different.
Your next step
Start with a conversation.
Whether you need an order changed, are trying to enforce one, or have been served with a complaint, a conversation can help you understand your options.
Caldeira Law, P.C. · 99 Derby Street, Suite 200 · Hingham, MA 02043