Naples Parental Relocation Lawyer

Modify Custody with a Skilled Naples Attorney

When life circumstances change, sometimes parents wish to relocate with their children. This presents a legal issue when the relocation affects the parenting plan and the other parent's access to the child. If you or your child's other parent wishes to move away due to marriage, a job opportunity, to be closer to family or for another reason, approval from the court must be obtained before relocating the child.

Whether the parent wishes to move within the state of Florida, out of the state or out of the country, any move that will make the current parenting plan unacceptable warrants approval by a judge.

A Review of Florida's Child Relocation Statute

At Long, Murphy & Shemkus, P.A., our Naples attorneys know that child relocation cases are among the most difficult for judges to decide. We provide our clients with sound advice based on many years of experience and a thorough understanding of Florida's family law statutes. The relocation statute contains specific criteria and a procedure to follow for those seeking permission to relocate.

The judge will weigh a variety of factors in making a determination, including but not limited to:

• The affordability of a substitute parenting plan, including transportation costs;
• How the move will affect the non-relocating parent's ability to exercise parenting rights;
• Whether the relocating parent will help the child maintain meaningful contact with the other parent; and
• How the move will impact the child's:
  • Health;
  • Relationships with family members;
  • Education; and
  • Standard of living.

Ultimately, the decision will be based on whether the relocation is in the best interests of the child.