Life continues to change, even after a divorce is final. The terms of your divorce order, including your custody and visitation arrangement, may not always be applicable to what is happening in your life. Some Ohio parents may even find that they need to move after divorce, but relocating could be complicated, especially if the custody order is already final.
Child relocation is more than just moving to a different house that is relatively close to where you live now. If you are the custodial parent, you may assume that you can do what you want regarding where your child will live and go to school, but that is not the case. If your move will put significant distance between your child and the other parent or will relocate your child to a different state, you will have to seek permission for relocation.
What should you know before you relocate?
When one parent wants to relocate, it can cause serious issues with the other parent. Even as the custodial parent, a desire to relocate can cause disputes, ultimately ending up before a family law court. The ultimate deciding factor for the court is whether a move would be in the best interests of the children.
If you want to move or you believe that you may need to move with your children at some point in the future, you may need to know the following:
- If you had plans to relocate before the divorce is final and the other parent gives express consent, you have the option to include permission and visitation procedures in your custody plan.
- You may have to give the other parent notice of your plan to relocate, giving him or her the option to dispute the decision or consent to the move along with necessary modifications to the custody and visitation plan.
- You may have to provide the court with sufficient proof that a relocation is necessary for a specific reason. This can include proof related to cost of living, new jobs, education or proximity to family.
Post-divorce custody and visitation issues are complex, but with guidance, you may be able to secure a reasonable and sufficient outcome to your situation.
Seeking a beneficial outcome to your concerns
Child custody and visitation issues are complex, especially when parents have disputes over what is best for the kids or possible relocations. If you need or want to relocate with your children, you may find it helpful to first seek an evaluation of your case in order to understand your options.