Seminole Relocation Lawyer
Custodial parents often want to move following divorce, but Florida limits the ability of parents to just up and move with a minor child. At The Reep Law Firm, our firm can help either mothers or fathers with a relocation case. Often, our clients want to move but their ex does not agree. However, we can also represent clients who want to block their ex from moving. Call us to speak with a Seminole relocation lawyer about your case.
How Judges View Relocation
Helpfully, Florida law allows parents to agree to a relocation. If possible, raise the issue with the other parent as soon as possible, who might agree. You can also revise the parenting plan to make it easier for the other parent to see the children after you move.
Unfortunately, agreement is not always possible. If not, then the parent seeking to move will need to petition the court for approval. If you simply move, then a judge could modify custody and grant custody to your ex.
Judges analyze relocation cases based on the child’s best interests. The court will consider what the parents want, but that’s only one factor—and not the main one. Instead, a judge will look at:
- The child’s age and development, including the impact of relocation on the child’s future development. A judge wants to consider the educational, physical, and emotional development of the child. Will the move enhance their development or hinder them?
- The extent of the child’s involvement with the parent who is opposing the relocation. Essentially, what kind of relationship does the child have? The closer the relationship, then the more likely a judge will agree with the parent and block the move.
- How feasible it is to maintain the child’s relationship with the parent who isn’t relocating. Can suitable visitation maintain the relationship?
- The child’s preferences, taking into consideration the child’s maturity and age. An older child’s opinion carries much more weight with a judge.
- Why the parents are seeking or opposing the relocation. Ideally, a parent is motivated by what is in their child’s best interests.
A judge doesn’t privilege one factor over others but instead balances all of them. Choosing the right lawyer is critical to making a strong argument in your favor.
How Our Office Can Help
Parents seeking to relocate or oppose relocation should immediately hire an attorney. Judges have discretion to weigh the above factors. It’s also hard to get a judge’s decision overturned on appeal unless the decision was against the evidence.
We can help either parent:
- If you are seeking relocation, we can help document how the move will enhance your child’s life. For example, you might be moving back to be closer with your extended family, who can provide emotional support to your child.
- If you oppose the move, we can establish your relationship with your child and how the move is not in your child’s best interests.
Speak with A Seminole Relocation Lawyer Today
Relocation cases are often emotional, so you benefit from an objective analysis of the case. Contact us to speak with a Seminole relocation lawyer with our firm.
