{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff41\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}
{\f36\fnil\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 00000400000000000000}WP TypographicSymbols{\*\falt Courier New};}{\f41\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020602080505020303}Baskerville Old Face;}{\f172\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;}
{\f173\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f175\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f176\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}{\f177\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);}
{\f178\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f179\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f180\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255;
\red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0;
\red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;\red255\green255\blue255;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden 
Default Paragraph Font;}{\*\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\*\cs15 \additive \sbasedon10 \ssemihidden footnote reference;}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid3081455
\rsid8216709\rsid9508377\rsid10571083}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6764;}{\info{\title IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\author lroberto}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo8\dy12\hr9\min4}{\revtim\yr2006\mo3\dy10\hr11\min8}{\version3}{\edmins1}
{\nofpages8}{\nofwords2956}{\nofchars16851}{\*\company Superior Court of Guam}{\nofcharsws19768}{\vern16391}}\margl1440\margr1440 
\widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\notabind\wraptrsp\transmf\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\truncatefontheight\subfontbysize\sprsbsp\wpjst\lytprtmet\hyphcaps0\horzdoc\dghspace120\dgvspace120\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0\dgvshow3
\jcompress\viewkind4\viewscale100\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot8216709 \fet0{\*\ftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8216709 \chftnsep 
\par }}{\*\ftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8216709 \chftnsepc 
\par }}{\*\aftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8216709 \chftnsep 
\par }}{\*\aftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8216709 \chftnsepc 
\par }}\sectd \sbknone\linex0\headery1440\footery1440\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid8216709\sftnbj {\header \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tqr\tx9360\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Lanser v. Lanser}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , Opinion\tab \tab \tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid8216709 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {
\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid3081455 8}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  of 10
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl-19\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid3081455 
{\shp{\*\shpinst\shpleft1440\shptop0\shpright10800\shpbottom19\shpfhdr1\shpbxpage\shpbxignore\shpbypara\shpbyignore\shpwr3\shpwrk0\shpfblwtxt1\shpz0\shplockanchor\shplid2049{\sp{\sn shapeType}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fFlipH}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFlipV}{\sv 0}}
{\sp{\sn fillColor}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fillBackColor}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fFilled}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn lineWidth}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fLine}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fShadow}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn posrelh}{\sv 1}}{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 0}}{\sp{\sn fBehindDocument}{\sv 1}}
{\sp{\sn fLayoutInCell}{\sv 0}}}{\shprslt{\*\do\dobxpage\dobypara\dodhgt0\dprect\dpx1440\dpy0\dpxsize9360\dpysize19\dpfillfgcr0\dpfillfgcg0\dpfillfgcb0\dpfillbgcr0\dpfillbgcg0\dpfillbgcb0\dpfillpat1\dplinehollow}}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl-240\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid8216709 
\par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}
{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8
\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 
\f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Michael J. Lanser}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par Plaintiff-Appellant,
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 v.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Susan R. Lanser}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par Defendant-Appellee}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Supreme Court Case No.: CVA02-018 
\par Superior Court Case No.: DM0826-97}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 OPINION}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Filed:}{\b\f0\insrsid3081455  }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 July 3, 2003}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Cite as: 2003 Guam 14}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and Submitted April 8, 2003
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trqc\trgaph122\trleft-122\trftsWidth1\trpaddl122\trpaddr122\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil 
\cellx4666\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4572\clshdrawnil \cellx9238\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 

\par }{\f0\ul\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 For Plaintiff-Appellant:}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par Seaton M. Woodley, III, Esq.
\par Ste. 102, Tanaka Bldg. Rte. 4
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par 
\par \cell 
\par }{\f0\ul\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 For Defendant-Appellee:}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par Joaquin C. Arriola, Jr., Esq.
\par Arriola, Cowan & Arriola
\par 259 Martyr Street, Suite 201
\par P.O. Box X
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96932\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow 
\ts11\trqc\trgaph122\trleft-122\trftsWidth1\trpaddl122\trpaddr122\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil \cellx4666\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone 
\clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4572\clshdrawnil \cellx9238\row }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 BEFORE: F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO, Chief Justice, BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ and JOHN A. MANGLONA, Justices }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Pro Tempore}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 .
\par 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 CRUZ, J.:}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [1]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Plaintiff-Appellant Michael Jon Lanser (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ) appeals from the Superior Court}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s denial of his motion to modify child custody. Michael argues that in denying his request to alternate primary custody each school year, the trial court erred by failing 
to apply legislative policy favoring equal time with each parent and by considering the best interests of Defendant-Appellee Susan Rae Lanser (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Susan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ), the children}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s mother, rather than the best interests of the children. We hold that substantial evidence in the record supports the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s decision and therefore affirm the denial of Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion.
}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [2]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Michael also appeals the Superior Court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s grant of Susan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion to modify child support. M
ichael argues that the trial court abused its discretion in increasing child support from $3000 per month to $7000 per month without specific findings to support the increase. We agree and accordingly reverse and remand on this issue.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 I.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [3]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Michael and S
usan were married on December 29, 1989. They have two minor sons, a twelve-year-old and a ten-year-old. In June of 1997, Susan and the children moved from Guam to Hawaii. Michael remained on Guam. Michael and Susan were divorced on Guam on September 19, 1
997. They signed a settlement agreement providing for joint legal custody of the children. The settlement required Michael to pay $2,000 per month in spousal support for three years and to pay $3,000 per month in child support.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [4]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab The settlement specifical
ly permitted Michael to visit the children for one weekend each month, but both parties understood that Michael would have liberal visitation rights. Michael visited the children in Hawaii several times. In July 2000, Susan and the children moved from Haw
aii to Washington, where they currently live. Michael remained on Guam.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [5]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab 
On September 5, 2001, Michael filed a motion to revise visitation. In his motion, Michael requested that primary custody alternate between him and Susan each school year. At a hearing on November 23, 2001, the trial court ruled that Michael}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion was for a change in custody rather than a modification of visitation. 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [6]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab On March 6, 2002, the Superior Court issued a decision and order denying the motion to alternate custody on an annual basis but increasing Michael}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s visitation to eight weeks out of the children}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s ten weeks of summer vacation, Thanksgiving break, one week during the February school break, and alternating Christmas holidays and Spring breaks.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [7]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Michael then filed a motion to reconsider the March 6 decision. On April 21,
 2002, Susan filed a motion for child support modification. The trial court heard both motions on April 25, 2002. In a decision and order issued on July 31, 2002, the trial court denied Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion to recons
ider and increased child support from $3,000 per month to $7,000 per month, retroactive to April 2002, the month that Susan filed for modification. Michael filed a notice of appeal on August 7, 2002.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 II.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [8]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab This court has jurisdiction over appeals from child custody orders. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See Flores v. Cruz}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 1998 Guam 30, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
 8. We review child custody matters keeping in mind the best interests of the children. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . This court also has jurisdiction over appeals from child support orders. }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See Leon Guerrero v. Moylan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 18, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  5 (citing Title 5 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 34121 (1996) and 7 GCA }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 3107(a) (1994)).}{\cs15\f0\super\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\sl-285\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid8216709 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid8216709  Although the trial court}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 s jurisdiction is not an issue on appeal, we note that Susan attempted to remove this case to Washington. The
 present case illustrates the difficulties of asserting jurisdiction when the children reside outside of Guam. For example, the trial court declined to continue the hearing on Michael}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 s custody motion, despite the social worker}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
s testimony that he had not had enough time to interview the children in preparing the custody home study report, because the children}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid8216709 s vacation was ending and they had to return to Washington for school. The trial court accepted the video taped depositions of the children}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 s school counselor and others who had observed the children, but did not have the benefit
 of a cross examination or of being able to ask additional questions. Additionally, the parties were unable to bring the children}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid8216709 s teachers or anyone else with knowledge of the children}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
s situation into court to testify, and the social worker prepared the custody home study report without the opportunity to observe the children at home. Thus, although the trial court properly accepted jurisdiction over this case, holdin
g a hearing in the locality where the children currently reside would have been more desirable, especially since the children have not lived on Guam since 1997.}{\insrsid8216709   }}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 III.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 A.}{\b\f0\insrsid3081455  }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Child Custody }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [9]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab A court may modify a custody arrangement whenever }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}
}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 the best interests of the child require or justify such modification.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Title 19 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 8404(f) (1994). Here, both partie
s agreed that the best interests of the children required modification of the original custody agreement to increase the amount of time the children would spend with Michael.}{\cs15\f0\super\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\sl-285\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid8216709 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid8216709  }{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 [T]o justify ordering a change in custody there must generally be a persuasive showing of changed circumstances affecting the child.}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 In re Marriage of Carney}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 598 P.2d 36, 38 (Cal. 1979). The rationale behind this rule is that }{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 it is desirable that there be an end of litigation and undesirable to change the child}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 s established mode of living.}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  }{
\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Id}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 . (citation omitted).
 The trial court in the present case made no specific finding of changed circumstances, but neither party raised this issue on appeal. Although not reflected in the record on appeal, the parties apparently stipulated to changed circumstances warranting a 
modification.}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [10]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Michael argues that the trial court erred in failing to apply 19 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 8404(h) to the present situation. That section provides:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 It is legislative policy that children spend as much time with eac
h of their parents as possible, when the parents are not living together. Therefore, in determining visitation of minor children on Guam with non-custodial parents living on Guam, the court shall, to the greatest degree possible, order visitation for mino
r children (pendente lite and permanently) with non-custodial parents such that the children spend more or less equal amounts of time with the custodial parent and the non-custodial parent during non-working, non-sleeping, non-school time}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 89 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 19 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 8404(h). 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [11]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab The trial court determined that section 8404(h) applies only when both the custodial and non-custodial parents live on Guam. We agree. The section deals with the
 determination of }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 visitation of }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 minor children on Guam}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  with non-custodial parents living on Guam.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . (emphasis added). Thus, the trial court correctly ruled that sec
tion 8404(h) is inapplicable in the present case, where Michael lives on Guam but Susan resides in Washington. Thus, section 8404(h) does not apply when the custodial parent, and thus the children, do not reside on Guam.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [12]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Although section 8404(h) is inapplicable in the present case, joint custody is still preferred. This court has previously noted that }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Title 19 of the Guam Code Annotated, read as a whole, reflects the legislature}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s underlying policy that whenever possible, the sanctity of family life should be preserved by the inclusion of both parents in the lives of their children.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Flores}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  11. Moreover, Guam statutes are }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 devoid of language requiring the trial court to decide between two parents.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  10. 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [13]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Joint custody, however, does not require that each parent have equal time with the children. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Sandoval v. Sandoval}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 832 So. 2d 1221, 1224 (La. Ct. App. 2002) (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 In providing for joint custody, the legislature contemplated that each party have substantial rather than equal time with the child.}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
). The trial court appropriately applied the policy favoring joint custody by granting Michael increased time with the children during the summers and other school vacations and in maintaining joint legal custody in both parents. }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Taylor v. Taylor}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 508 A.2d 964, 967 (Md. 1986) (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
Shared physical custody may, but need not, be on a 50/50 basis, and in fact most commonly will involve custody by one parent during the school year and by the other during summer vacati
on months, or division between weekdays and weekends, or between days and nights.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ).
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [14]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Michael also argues that the trial court considered the best interests of Susan and not of the children in denying the mot
ion for equal time. In its Decision and Order, the trial court noted that Susan }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
has developed a very strong attachment to her children. As she testified, the children are }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
her world.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Appellant}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s Excerpts of Record, tab G, p. 21 (Decision and Order). The trial court further stated that Susan }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 has devoted her life to her children. They are the only world she knows and the only world she has}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 89 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . She has in fact become the integral part of this family unit with her children.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Appellant}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s Excerpts of Record, tab G, p. 26 (Decision and Order). Based partially on these statements, Michael argues that the trial court did not consider the best interests of the children in reaching its conclusion.}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [15]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab We review child custody orders for an abuse of discretion. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See Flores}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  8. Under this standard, the appellate court does
 not substitute its own judgment for that of the trial court. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 People v. Tuncap}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 1998 Guam 13, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  12. Instead, it determines whether substantial evidence supports the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s decision. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 In re Marriage of Meegan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 13 Cal. Rptr. 2d 799, 801 (Cal. Ct. App. 1992); }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Bondoc v. Worker}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s Comp. Comm}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 n}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2000 Guam 6, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  6.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [16]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab The primary consideration when determining custody is the best interests of the children. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
 19 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 8404; }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Flores}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 1998 Guam 30. The purpose of a custody hearing is }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
to determine the best interests of the child and not that of the parents.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Flores}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  23. }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
The issue is not what is in the best interest of the family unit consisting of the custodial mother and the minor children.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Riley v. Riley}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 873 S.W.2d 564, 567 (Ark. Ct. App. 1994). Once 
a court finds that a change in custody is necessary, the sole issue before the court is }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
determining the best interests of the children, not the children and their mother, and not the children and their father.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 .
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [17]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Here, the trial court heard testimony from several witnesses on the children}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s best interests. Witnesses included Robert Wolford (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Wolford}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
), the social worker who prepared the Home Custody Report, the school counselor at Voyager School, friends of Michael and Susan, and Michael and Susan themselves. Wolford
 testified to his conclusion that the proposed alternating custody arrangement would not be in the best interests of the children. Transcript vol. 1, p. 203 (Custody Status Hearing, Feb. 21, 2002). The children}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s
 school counselor arrived at the same conclusion, noting that alternating custody would be difficult for the older child because he is resistant to change and for the younger child because he does not have as close a relationship with his father as with h
is mother. Transcript vol. 1, pp. 92-93 (Custody Status Hearing, Feb. 21, 2002). Susan also testified that the proposed arrangement would not be in the best interests of the children. Thus, the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s decision is supported by substantial evidence.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [18]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Although some testimony contradicts the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s conclusion, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
it is within the purview of the trial court to weigh the credibility of witnesses and their testimony.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Nissan v. Sea Star Group, Inc.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 5, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  32. Rather than reweighing the evidence, we look only to see whether substantial evidence exists to support the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s decision. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Tuncap}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 1998 Guam 13 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  13; }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
In re Marriage of Meegan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 13 Cal. Rptr. 2d at 801.}{\f0\insrsid3081455  }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Substantial evidence is relevant evidence that a reasonable person may accept as sufficient to support a conclusion, even if inconsistent conclusions may be drawn from the evidence.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 B.M. Co. v. Avery}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 19, }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
 13. Thus, because substantial evidence supports the decision, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion for equal time.}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 B.}{\b\f0\insrsid3081455  }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Child Support}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [19]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab An award of child support is reviewed for an abuse of discretion, keeping in mind the best interests of the children. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Leon Guerrero}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 18 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  16.}{\cs15\f0\super\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\sl-285\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid8216709 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid8216709  A court may modify a support order }{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 upon a showing of substantial and material change of circumstances.}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  Title 5 GCA }{
\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 34121; see also }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Wolf v. Wolf}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 566 S.E.2d 516, 518 (N.C. Ct. App. 2002); }{
\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Sims v. Sims}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 770 N.E.2d 860, 863 (Ind. Ct. App. 2002); }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Weiss v. Weiss}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 742 N.Y.S.2d 663, 664 (N.Y. App. Div. 2002); }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Gallner v. Hoffman}
{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 653 N.W.2d 838, 843 (Neb. 2002); }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Yancey v. Yancey}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
, 752 So. 2d 1006, 1010 (Miss. 1999). The burden to establish a substantial and material change of circumstances is on the moving party. }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 In re Marriage of Stephenson}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 46 Cal. Rptr. 2d 8, 
12 (Cal. Ct. App. 1995). }{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
It is error to change the amount of support where there is no evidence submitted to show a change in circumstances.}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  }{
\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Thurston v. Pinkstaff}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 , 730 S.W.2d 239, 241 (Ark. 1987); }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 see also}{\fs20\insrsid8216709  }{\i\fs20\insrsid8216709 Dorfman v. Dorfman}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
, 719 A.2d 178, 180 (N.J. Super. App. Div. 1998). As with the custody modification issue, the trial court in the present case did not make a finding of changed circumstances warranting a modificatio
n of child support, nor did it discuss any evidence of a change in circumstances. However, the parties appear to have stipulated to a substantial and material change in circumstances and did not argue this issue on appeal.}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  The trial court granted Susan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s motion to modify child support, increasing Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s obligation from $3,000 to $7,000 per month. Michael argues that the increased amount of child support vastly exceed
s the reasonable needs of the children, thereby depriving Michael of his right as a parent to make discretionary spending decisions. Michael also argues that the trial court}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s award of child support far in excess of the children}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s needs resulted in a disguised award of spousal support because the excess amount primarily benefited Susan rather than the children. Finally, Michael argues that the trial court erred in awardi
ng an amount of child support that inappropriately contemplates the future needs of the children rather than their present needs.}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [20]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab In setting the amount of child support when a parent is wealthy, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 a balance m
ust be struck between reasonable needs, which reflect lifestyle opportunities, while at the same time precluding an inappropriate windfall to the child or even in some cases infringing on the legitimate right of either parent to determine the appropriate 
lifestyle of a child.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Isaacson v. Isaacson}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 792 A.2d 525, 538 (N.J. Super. App. Div. 2002). }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
The problem with requiring child support in amounts far in excess of the usual expenditures on children is that it effectively transfers most of the discretionary spending on children to the custodial parent.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Matter of Marriage of Patterson}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 920 P.2d 450, 455 (Kan. App. 1996) (citation omitted); }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also Downing v. Downing}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 45 S.W.3d 449, 455-56 (Ky. Ct. App. 2001) (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 An increase in child support above the child's reasonable needs }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 89 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  effectively transfers most of the discretionary spending on children to the custodial parent.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ). Thus, the court must engage in }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 a careful balancing of interests reflecting that
 a child's entitlement to share in a parent's good fortune does not deprive either parent of the right to participate in the development of an appropriate value system for a child.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Isaacson}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 792 A.2d at 538-39.}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [21]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Courts recognize that }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 where the child has a wealthy parent, that child is entitled to, and therefore }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 needs}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  something more than the bare necessities of life.}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 White v. Marciano}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 235 Cal. Rptr. 779, 782 (Cal. Ct. App. 1987); }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Isaacson, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 792 A.2d at 537 (}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Children are entitled t
o not only bare necessities, but a supporting parent has the obligation to share with his children the benefit of financial achievement.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ). This concept of relative needs, however, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
is not an open-ended opportunity for a parent to develop a }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 wish-list}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  for a child that does not comport with the child}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s best interests.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Isaacson}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 792 A.2d at 539. Thus, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [w]hile to some degree children have a right to share in each parent}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s standard of living, child support must be set in an amount which is reasonably and rationally related to the realistic needs of the children.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Downing}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 45 S.W.3d at 456. }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Practitioners dealing with situations such as this sometimes refer to the }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Three Pony Rule.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  That is, no child, no matter how wealthy the parents, needs to be provided more than three ponies.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}
}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Matter of Marriage of Patterson}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 920 P.2d at 455.
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [22]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab Although allowing a child to share in the good fortune of a non-custodial parent may unavoidably confer an incidental benefit on the custodial parent as well, }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
a custodial parent cannot through the guise of the incidental benefits of child support gain a benefit beyond that which is merely incidental to a benefit being conferred on the child. This is especially true when }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 89 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  the supporting parent}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s alimony obligation has ended.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Loro v. Colliano}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 806 A.2d 799, 807 (N.J. Super. App. Div. 2002); }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Downing}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ,}{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 45 S.W.3d at 455 (}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 An increase in child support above the child}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s reasonable needs primarily accrues to the benefit of the custodial parent rather than the children.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 ). A child is entitled to share in the lifestyle of his parents. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . at 456. However, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
the purpose of a child support order is to provide for the care and well-being of minor children, and not to equalize the available income of divorced parents}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Battersby v. Battersby}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 590 A.2d 427, }{\f0\insrsid3081455 431 (Conn. 1991).}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [23]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab 
When the income of the parents exceeds the child support guidelines, as it does here, the court cannot simply extrapolate from the guidelines to determine the amount of child support. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See Leon Guerrero}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 18 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  27-29; }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Reinhart v. Reinhart}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 963 P.2d 757, 759 (Utah. Ct. App. 1998). The trial court must make }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 factual findings to support setting the basic child support obligation beyond the Guidelines}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  cap.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Leon Guerrero}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 18 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  28. Moreover, }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
[t]hese findings must be more than a simple recitation by the court of relevant statutory factors; the court must relate those factors to the specific facts in the case before it. The court must show how the figure it is using reflects the reasonable need
s of these particular children in these particular circumstances.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
 29 (holding that the trial court abused its discretion in exceeding the guidelines without specific findings) (citation omitted).}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [24]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab 
Here, the trial court did not make any specific findings to justify setting the amount of child support at $7000 per month. Instead, the trial court began by extrapolating from the guidelines to reach an amount of 
$10,000 per month. The trial court also considered Susan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s interrogatories showing that the children}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s current needs were $3057 per month at the time of the hearing. Appellant}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s Excerpts of Record, tab H, p. 15 (Decision and Order). Nothing in the record, however, suggests or justifies the amount of $7000 that the trial court ultimately reached.}{\cs15\f0\super\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\sl-285\slmult0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f41\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid8216709 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid8216709  We note that using Susan}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid8216709 
s answers to the interrogatories and her estimate of additional expenses that she asked the trial court to consider would set the monthly needs of the children at no more than $4500 per month, but leave it to the tria
l court to calculate the reasonable needs of the children.}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [25]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab In increasing the amount of child support, the trial court explained that, among other }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 future needs,}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  the amount awarded }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
contemplated that when these children reach driving age, it will avail them the opportunity of having an automobile suitable and appropriate for a teenager.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  at p. 16. The trial court further stated that it was }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 not the intent that every cent of support received per month be spent.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Appellant}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s Excerpts of Record, tab H, p. 16 (Decision and Order). }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
[A]n award for child support is for the child}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s current needs based on the child}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s appropriate standard of living and not for the purpose of saving portions thereof for future needs.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Jane Doe VI v. Richard Roe VI}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 736 P.2d 448, 457 (Haw. Ct. App. 1987); }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 see also}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Brooks v. Brooks}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 871 S.W.2d 42, 45 (Mo. Ct. App. 1993) (characterizing }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 a car for a child who was 15 years old at the time of the trial, and a bar mitzvah for a child who was 10 at the time of trial}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  as }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 wish list}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  items). Thus, the trial court}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s award of child support exceeded the reasonable needs of the children, even considering that they ar}{\f0\insrsid3081455 e children of a wealthy parent.}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 C.}{\b\f0\insrsid3081455  }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Date of Modification}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [26]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
Modification of a child support order may take effect any time after the filing of the motion to modify.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  Leon Guerrero}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 , 2002 Guam 18 at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  45 (citing Title 5 GCA }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 3412
1 (1996)). We review the determination of the effective date of modification for an abuse of discretion. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 .}{\f0\insrsid8216709 
\par }{\f0\insrsid3081455\charrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [27]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab In }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Leon Guerrero v. Moylan}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
, 2002 Guam 18, this court expressed a preference for using the date of filing the motion to modify support rather than the date of the hearing as the effective date of child support modification. }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 See id}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . at }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  45-46. Granting modification from the latter date }{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
detracts from the purposes of the changed circumstances rule and serves to encourage and benefit dilatory tactics. Moreover, a motion to modify child support indicates that a change in circumstances has occurred at the time the petition is filed.}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  }{\i\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 Id}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 . at }{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
 47 (citation and quotation marks omitted). Once the trial court determined that a modification was necessary, it was required to rule that the mo
dification was effective retroactively to the date that the motion was filed without evidence justifying using a later date. Therefore, the trial court did not abuse its discretion in determining the filing date to be the effective date of modification.

\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 IV.}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3081455 {\b\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 [28]}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 \tab We hold that the trial court did not abuse its discretion in denying Michael}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s motion to modify custody by allowing each parent equal time with the children, alternating primary custody each school year. Substantial evidence supported the trial court}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 s decision that the proposed custody arrangement was not in the children}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 
s best interests. However, we also hold that the trial court did abuse its discretion in increasing the amount of child support beyond the reasonable needs of the children. Accordingly, we }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 AFFIRM}{
\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  in part and }{\b\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455 REMAND}{\f0\insrsid8216709\charrsid3081455  for a determination of the proper amount of child support that provides for the current reasonable needs of the children.}{
\f0\insrsid3081455 
\par }}