Opinion ID: 2545859
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Kenneth demonstrated a significant change in circumstances since the entry of the previous custody order.

Text: We have held that a custody modification is valid if (1) the non-custodial parent establishes that a change in circumstances has occurred; and (2) the modification is in the best interests of the child. [10] Lorrie alleges that Kenneth did not satisfy the former of these requirements. To warrant a custody modification, the change in circumstances must be significant or substantial. [11] Moreover, the requisite change in circumstances must be demonstrated relative to the facts and circumstances that existed at the time of the custody order that a parent seeks to have modified. [12] Therefore, in order to obtain a custody modification, Kenneth was required to show that a significant or substantial change in E.C.'s circumstances had occurred from the time of the previous custody order sought to be modified. [13] Kenneth satisfied this burden. At the hearing on Kenneth's motion for modification, the trial court heard evidence of a number of changes in circumstances that occurred since the trial court entered its previous custody order. The most important changes in circumstances were the deterioration of the relationship between Lorrie and E.C. in the months preceding the hearing and E.C.'s subsequent move to Kenneth's home and his refusal to live with Lorrie. [14] Together these changes clearly constituted a substantial change in circumstances that justified a review of the existing custody arrangement. Accordingly, the superior court did not abuse its discretion in deeming that Kenneth had satisfied his burden of demonstrating a substantial change in circumstances.