Voted #1 Family Law Firm in California
in a statewide poll limited to Judges, Attorneys, and Law Firm Administrators.
Request a Consultation
We provide superior legal representation for clients throughout Los Angeles County, including Bel Air, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Brentwood.
Under California law, most aspects of a family law judgment—including child support, spousal support, and child custody—are subject to modification if a “material change in circumstances” has occurred. This legal standard ensures that orders remain fair and in the best interests of the parties involved.
A Beverly Hills post-judgment modification attorney from our firm can assist you in seeking or contesting changes related to:
Obtaining a modification is not automatic; it requires a formal request (Request for Order) and a persuasive demonstration of evidence to the court. Our firm serves as your strategic partner by:
Modifying a judgment requires a deep understanding of the original case and the foresight to prevent future litigation. Clients trust our firm because:
If your current court order no longer fits your family’s needs, don’t wait to seek a legal remedy. The sooner you file, the sooner you can achieve financial and personal relief. Schoenberg Family Law Group, P.C. represents clients in Beverly Hills, Culver City, Malibu, and throughout Southern California. Contact us today at 310-340-1846 or fill out our online form for a complimentary consultation with our Beverly Hills post-judgment modification attorneys.
"I was seeking a reputable family law firm for my prenuptial agreement and received high praise for the Schoenberg Law Group. My attorney listened to my questions and responded to them very patiently. She also paid close attention all my concerns and made sure I was aware of the legal value of the agreement I was about to sign. It was…”
D.R.“It has been a real blessing to find this family law group in my life. I was in the middle of a custody battle with my ex wife and had a lawyer who had sided with my ex wife’s lawyer. I was faced with the option of paying to a regular lawyer to do half jobs with no results or to invest a bit more for a top family counselor who understood my situation and at the same time not giving me false hopes."
A.L."I hesitated filing papers for a long time because I was not sure if I could survive a long legal battle. When we were married, my husband worked while I raised the children, two under four years old, and I was afraid I would lose the stability they needed. I had a wonderful group of friends that helped me search for a reputable law firm that could represent me when my focus was on my children. They found the"
L.A.We are trial lawyers who litigate high-conflict, high-stakes cases. While we try to build on mediation efforts and exhaust opportunities for a negotiated agreement, emotions, egos and various other realities often force these disputes into court. It is critical to work with a firm that knows how to apply the law and the facts in your favor, whether in the courtroom or at the negotiating table.
One of California’s Top Family Lawyers for five consecutive years: 2022–2026
SFLG Voted #1 Family Law Firm in California for six consecutive years: 2021 - 2026
One of the Best Places to Work in the Bay Area by San Francisco Business Times
Debra Schoenberg was named a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML)
Designated as a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State of California Board of Legal Specialization
Board-Certified Family Law Trial Specialist by The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA)
“My goal is to preserve your dignity and your humanity throughout what can be a very difficult and painful process, while at the same time achieving a favorable outcome on your behalf.”
Over 400 Years of Collective Family Law Experience
Debra R. Schoenberg
Owner & Founder
Lily Huang
Senior Associate
Kimia Kojouri
Associate
Miho Takarada
Senior Counsel
A material change is a significant shift that occurred after the original order was signed. Common examples include a job loss, a substantial raise, a change in a child's health or educational needs, or child’s environment.
Yes. If the other parent’s income has increased significantly, you can petition the court for an upward modification of child support to ensure the child benefits from the parent's improved standard of living.
Generally, if a judgment or marital settlement agreement explicitly states that spousal support is non-modifiable, the court cannot change it. However, an attorney should review the specific language of your order to determine if any exceptions apply.
The timeline depends on the court’s calendar and whether the other party contests the change. It can take several months to secure a hearing date, though changes will be made retroactive to the date you filed the motion.
No. You must continue to pay the court-ordered amount until the court officially modifies the order. Failing to do so can result in interest, penalties, and contempt of court charges.
California law creates a "rebuttable presumption" that the need for support decreases if the supported spouse is living with a non-marital partner. This is a common ground for seeking a reduction in payments.
While the court will consider the preferences of a child who is of sufficient age and maturity (typically 14 or older), the judge will still make the final decision based on the child's "best interests."
Even if you agree, you should have an attorney draft a formal "stipulation and order" to be signed by a judge. This ensures the new agreement is legally enforceable.
During the modification process, both parties are required to exchange updated Income and Expense Declarations. Your attorney can use the discovery process to compel the production of tax returns and pay stubs.
A relocation (move-away) requires a modification of the custody and visitation order. The court will evaluate how the move impacts the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent, among other “best interests” factors.
