---
title: "Can a custody order be changed after it is entered?"
description: "Yes. Either parent can petition the Rhode Island Family Court to modify a custody order when there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was issued. Examples include..."
url: https://bankandmunns.com/faq-items/can-a-custody-order-be-changed-after-it-is-entered/
date: 2026-04-18
modified: 2026-04-18
author: "Bank and Munns"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# Can a custody order be changed after it is entered?

Yes. Either parent can petition the Rhode Island Family Court to modify a custody order when there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was issued. Examples include a parent relocating, a significant change in the child's needs, evidence of abuse or neglect, or a parent repeatedly violating the existing custody arrangement. The court will apply the best interests of the child standard to any modification request.