Relocation of Parent Out of State
Minnesota Child Custody Lawyer: Relocations and the Court
When parents are divorced there are times that one parent may need to move out of state for job reasons or for other reasons. No matter what the circumstances of your situation may be any move or relocation must be shown to protect the best interest of the child. The court will take a look at what is in the best interest of the child before awarding an order allowing the relocation. A move in which a parent wants to relocate to better his or her career and make more money could be considered in the best interest of the child , or not, based upon the exact circumstances involved. If you are a divorced parent who needs to relocate out of state, you should speak to a Minnesota divorce attorney without delay.
In order to determine the validity of the move, the court will look at:
- The nature, extent of involvement, and the quality of the relationship of the parent proposing to relocate.
- The relationship with the non-relocating parent, any siblings, and relationships with other significant people in the child's life.
- The age, developmental stage, the impact of the move, and the needs of the child.
- The financial circumstances of both parents.
- The child's preference.
- Whether or not the relocating parent is trying to thwart the relationship between the child and the non-relocating parent.
- Whether or not the relocation of the parent and child would result in a better quality of life for the child.
- The reason why relocation is being sought or opposed.
- The effect on the welfare and the safety of the child. For instance, if some kind of domestic abuse is present.
If the court is not convinced the move is in the best interest of the child, the parent will be forbidden to move with the child. At Heimerl & Lammers, we have many years of experience helping our clients relocate with their children. You can rest assured that we have a solid grasp on the complicated laws dictating the relocation of a parent to another state and the child custody issues that need to be addressed professionally .
Contact a Minnesota child custody lawyer if you need to relocate out of state.