When the primary custodial parent in a divorced or separated parent scenario wishes to move out of the area — perhaps out of state or to a different area of California — that parent has a burden of proof that the move will be in the child's best interests. Disrupting the relationship between the child and the other parent by removing that child from the geographical area is not a minor matter and must be approached thoughtfully and sometimes creatively.
A primary custodial parent may have very "good reasons" for proposing a move-away:
- Real estate market issues such as foreclosure resulting in loss of the home in the area where the child has lived with that parent
- Job changes: promotions, transfers or job loss and beginning a new job in a different location
- Family considerations, such as a need to move closer to elderly parents who need assistance or care
- Educational needs: a parent's plan to begin graduate school, for example, or a desire to move the child closer to a desired private school
Other factors that should be taken into account include the following:
- Proposed parenting plan changes to accommodate the move-away while preserving parenting time for the other parent
- School, sports and extracurricular activities
- Friendships and location of extended family
- Relative safety of the proposed new location
Contact a Chico Move-Away Child Custody Attorney
Are you a primary custodial parent seeking a modification of your child custody order that will allow for a desired move out of the area?
Are you a noncustodial parent wishing to block or modify a proposed move-away by your child's other parent?
Whichever side of the equation you are on, it is important to work with a child custody lawyer who will make the effort to understand your needs, wishes and motives — and take into account your child's best interests as well as financial considerations when legal fees are taken into account.
Our Approach and Resources Can Make a Difference
Our family law attorneys are ready to review all relevant factors in your child move-away matter. If we represent you, we will advise you at all times with your child's best interests as the overriding factor and help you pursue the most favorable outcome that takes into account your unique circumstances.
Getting the Right Legal Team Starts
With Choosing the Right Northern California Relocation Lawyer
Local: (530) 343-LAWS ((530) 343-5297)
Toll Free: (800) TKO-4LAW ((800) 856-4529)
For a free initial consultation, call us at either of the two numbers listed above or complete the brief e-mail form provided on the Contact page of this website.
