Families across the nation have experienced major disruptions due to the Covid-19 pandemic. For divorced parents, there was a scramble early on to work out new parenting time arrangements when schools were closed, and now with the economy on the ropes, some parents have had to take jobs in other states requiring their ex-spouse’s or the court’s approval to move with the kids.
Child Relocation
After the dust has settled in a divorce, one parent may wish to relocate geographically for any number of reasons such as a relationship, to be close to extended family, or because of a job. If a parent wishes to relocate with children after finding other employment due to Covid-19 closures or mandates, for example, they must have the approval of the other parent before they can move their child beyond a certain distance.
For example, parents who have the majority or equal parenting time may seek to relocate with child, however, if a parent is relocating more than 25 miles from the child’s current residence in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will Counties; or more than 50 miles from their primary residence in other counties; or if they are moving out of state more than 25 miles from the child’s primary residence, they must get approval to relocate from the other parent, or the court if the parent does not agree.
If it goes before a judge, he or she will consider what is in the child’s best interests when making a determination regarding relocation. They will take into account the reasons for the relocation, the child’s proximity to family members including the other parent, educational opportunities, and resources available at the new location and other pertinent factors.
Contact an Experienced Child Relocation Lawyer for Help
Because there are no concrete rules regarding whether a child relocation is in the best interest of a child, it is important to work with an experienced family law attorney if you wish to relocate with your child or if you are a parent who objects. When a plan is approved, either by mutual agreement between parents or by order of the court your attorney can assist you with a modification to the existing parenting time and parental responsibility agreement. When you have questions regarding relocation of a child due to new employment, contact the Libertyville family law offices of Ronald L Bell & Associates PC for help at 847-495-6000.