Relocating with a child can bring both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, especially when custody arrangements are involved. If you’re considering a move, it’s important to carefully consider how the change will affect your child and their relationship with the other parent. Florida law requires parents to take specific steps before relocating to ensure the move is in the child’s best interests. At Central Justice, we’re here to help you understand the legal process and work toward a resolution that respects everyone’s rights while prioritizing your child’s well-being.
Understanding Parental Relocation in Florida
In Florida, parental relocation involves moving a child more than 50 miles away for at least 60 consecutive days. This can significantly impact existing custody arrangements, so the law requires parents to follow specific procedures. A relocation isn’t just a family decision; it’s a legal matter that requires consent from the other parent or approval from the court.
Florida courts carefully evaluate whether a proposed move serves the child’s best interests, considering factors like the child’s relationship with both parents, the reasons for the move, and how it will affect the child’s quality of life. Failing to comply with these requirements can lead to serious consequences, including modifications to custody or visitation. We can help you handle this process with confidence and care.
The Process of Relocating with a Custody Arrangement
Relocating with a custody arrangement in Florida involves a structured legal process to ensure the move aligns with the child’s best interests. Here’s how it typically works:
- Notify the other parent: You must provide written notice to the other parent well in advance. The notice should include:
- Your proposed new address.
- The reasons for the move.
- A proposed parenting plan detailing how visitation and communication with the other parent will be maintained.
- Seek agreement: If the other parent agrees to the move, both parties can sign a written agreement, which must then be submitted to the court for approval.
- File a petition: If the other parent objects, you’ll need to file a formal petition for relocation with the court. This document outlines your reasons for the move and includes supporting evidence.
- Court hearing: The court will evaluate several factors, such as the child’s relationship with both parents, opportunities the move offers, and how visitation can be maintained.
What Not to Do When Relocating
Relocating with a custody arrangement requires careful planning and strict adherence to Florida law. Missteps during this process can lead to serious consequences, including legal challenges or loss of custody. Here are some things you should avoid:
- Moving without court approval: Relocating without obtaining either the other parent’s consent or a court order can result in legal penalties, including being ordered to return the child.
- Ignoring the co-parent: Failing to notify the other parent in writing about your intent to relocate can escalate conflicts and harm your case in court.
- Relying on verbal agreements: Even if the other parent verbally agrees to the move, it’s not legally binding until documented and approved by the court.
Additionally, avoid making unilateral decisions that could be seen as disregarding the other parent’s rights or the child’s well-being. Taking the right steps ensures your relocation is lawful and protects your custody arrangement.
How We Can Help You with Parental Relocation
At Central Justice, we understand the challenges and emotions involved in relocating with a child under a custody arrangement. Our goal is to provide you with the support and guidance you need to handle this process with confidence. We can help you review your custody relocation plans, ensure you comply with Florida’s legal requirements, and prepare the necessary documentation to present your case effectively. If a dispute arises, we’re prepared to represent you in court, advocating for a resolution that prioritizes your child’s best interests while protecting your parental rights.
Contact Our Experienced Orlando Parental Relocation Attorneys
Relocating with a child requires careful legal steps to protect your custody arrangement and your child’s best interests. At Central Justice, we’re here to guide you through every stage of the process. Contact us today to discuss your relocation plans and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.