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You are here: Families & Children > Custody & Visitation > What happens if one of the parents wants to move away with the children?

What happens if one of the parents wants to move away with the children?

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Can a parent move away with the children without permission from the other parent?

How can I stay close to my children if they move away with the other parent?

Can a parent move away with the children without permission from the other parent?

The law on these types of cases is very complicated and changing.  You should talk to a lawyer if you want to move away with your children or if you are worried that the other parent will move away with your children. Click here for help finding a lawyer.
Generally, a parent who has a permanent order for sole physical custody can move away with the children, unless the other parent can show that the move would harm the children. But it is not always clear whether a custody order is permanent or temporary, so what the law requires may be different in your case.  Talk to a lawyer to make sure how the law applies to your specific circumstances.
If the parents have joint physical custody of the children, the parent wanting to move with the children must show that the move is in the best interests of the children.
If you are worried that the other parent may want to move away with your children, or if you think you may want to move away with the children, you should talk to a lawyer before you make a parenting plan to make sure your plan protects your rights as much as possible.

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How can I stay close to my children if they move away with the other parent?
You can make a parenting plan that takes into consideration that your children are moving away and changes the visitation so that you can still have quality time with your children.  Click here for help with parenting plans.

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