Count on it: They will "improve" magically!

Just as soon as you file your motion to modify, or any pleading seeking custody, you can count on one thing: The other parent will suddenly magically improve. They will call you and let you know what the child is doing. They will call the child when the child is in your home. They will get a job, or quit one if it takes them away from the child too much. They will divorce the errant step-parent, or marry the live-in boyfriend/girlfriend. They will start going to church. They will pay more attention to what young teenagers are wearing, doing and saying. They will shut down the computer and wash the clothes. They will move, and clean the house. If you want a parent who is not living up to what you feel they should do to magically improve, just file seeking principal residence of the child whom you share with that parent. This will really help! But beware: Changes inspired by litigation rarely last. So, if you think that a long, historical record of poor parenting will triumph over a short-term, magical change, persist in your motion. But if your evidence pre-filing is a long list of small problems, consider going for more time but not necessarily principal residence, as their "magical" change might well outweigh your laundry list of nagging problems. CC