Most often, the best option for a child of divorce is to have two parents who live within a reasonable distance of one another. Unfortunately, due to a number of factors, this is not always possible or realistic.
For many separated parents, it becomes necessary to relocate several cities or states away due to a job, family, health, or a number of other reasons. Sometimes, parents might be able to better care for a child by relocating because the child will receive the support and encouragement of other family members.
Ideally, the two parents will agree to the relocation ahead of time and there will not be any disagreements over the new arrangements. This, however, is not always possible. In these situations, the assistance of an experienced family law attorney can be helpful.
Reasons Why Parents Might Relocate
There are numerous reasons why a parent might decide to relocate. When making decisions about whether to approve the relocation, courts will look to what is in the best interest of the child. Some of the factors that courts will analyze when evaluating a relocation request include:
- The reasons for relocation
- The potential advantages the relocation will have on the child’s life
- The likelihood that a parent will follow custody orders following relocation
- If the relocation will let the non-relocating parent still visit with the child
- How moving might impact the emotional, physical, and developmental well-being of the child
If a relocation is necessary as a result of a job loss or other pressing factors, your family law attorney will likely be able to help you receive a temporary location order. In some cases, it is also possible to request an accelerated hearing concerning the move, which means that a court will cut down the amount of time that it takes to hear the case.
Tips for Relocating Parents
There are several important tips that relocating parents should remember to follow, which include:
- Follow relocation rules. Even if a court approves of a relocation, it is critical for relocating parents to make sure to follow any new or existing orders by the court. Otherwise, a parent can end up facing a number of obstacles.
- Give advance notice. Many parents discover that the ease of relocating increases with the amount of notification that the other parent receives. As a result, it is often a good idea to tell your former spouse about the possibility of relocation early on in the process.
- Do not bring your problems with you. The family law system is designed to reward parents who honestly and directly communicate with the other parent about matters that are in a child’s best interest. By attempting to move before a court order is created, you are at risk of losing your custody rights.
Speak With a Knowledgeable Family Law Attorney
Parents who are considering a move should not hesitate to speak with a knowledgeable family attorney who understands the process and who can explain your rights. Contact Vayman & Teitelbaum P.C. today to schedule a case evaluation.