Relocation Lawyer in Pensacola, FL

Helping You Navigate Relocation After Divorce

Life is full of changes, and sometimes those changes involve relocating to a new city, state, or even country. If you share custody of your children after a divorce, relocating can complicate matters, especially if your new home is more than 50 miles away from the location specified in your divorce agreement.

Whether it’s a job opportunity, a new relationship, or a need to be closer to family, relocating after a divorce is not always straightforward. At Craig A. Vigodsky, P.A., we’re here to help you navigate the legal process of requesting a relocation modification to your custody or visitation arrangements.

What is Relocation in Family Law?

In family law, relocation refers to a significant change in the primary residence of a parent or caretaker. If the new residence is located 50 miles or more from the original home listed in your divorce orders, it may require legal modification of your parenting plan or time-sharing agreement. Additionally, the new home must be permanent, staying in place for at least 60 consecutive days, excluding temporary absences like vacations or trips for work or health care.

Relocation is often necessary due to changes in life, such as a new job, remarriage, or financial shifts. However, it’s important to know that relocating with children requires approval from the court, especially if it affects existing custody or visitation arrangements.

When Can a Relocation Petition Be Approved?

A judge can approve a relocation petition in a few situations, including:

• When all parties agree: If both parents agree to the move and any new arrangements, the court is likely to approve the relocation.
• Best interests of the child: If the relocation is deemed to be in the child’s best interest, the judge may approve the petition.
• No objections: If the other parent is properly notified and does not object to the move within a specified time frame, the relocation may be approved.

In many cases, a new parenting plan needs to be presented, outlining the adjustments in visitation or custody that will accommodate the move. This might also include a breakdown of new costs and travel arrangements.

Need Help with Your Relocation Petition?

Relocating more than 50 miles after a divorce can be a complicated process. You’ll need to show the court how the move will affect your existing custody or visitation arrangement and how you plan to handle any changes.

If you’re facing a relocation situation, Craig A. Vigodsky can help. With years of experience in family law, we provide expert legal assistance to help ensure your relocation request is handled efficiently and in your family’s best interest.

Contact Us Today

If you’re considering relocating and need help modifying your custody or visitation arrangement, reach out to Craig A. Vigodsky, P.A. for a consultation. We’ll work with you to ensure the transition is smooth and in line with the law.

Call (850) 912-8520 or contact us online to discuss your options.