Guiding Parents Through Child Custody Relocation
When a child custody order is in place, sometimes it might need to be changed or modified. One of these reasons is the relocation of a parent. There are many reasons a parent may need to move, such as an employment opportunity, a sick relative, a new relationship or any other significant life event. However, contemplating change is difficult and can cause emotional distress. A relocation will have an impact on parenting time and could jeopardize your existing relationship with your child. These times of change can be difficult and require legal consideration, particularly when you have an existing parenting plan with a former partner.
At Lutins & Pilgreen, PC, in Roanoke, we help parents resolve difficult issues surrounding relocating with a child. We have successfully represented parents seeking court approval to move with a child, as well as those trying to prevent a move that could impact their child custody or visitation arrangements.
Understanding Virginia Law For Parental Relocations
Virginia child custody laws address the relocation of a parent. If a parent is moving out of the community, Virginia laws require that:
- The relocating parent must provide at least 30 days’ notice to the court and the other parent before moving.
- The relocating parent must provide the reasons that the move or relocation is in the child’s best interests.
- The nonrelocating parent has the right to contest a relocation by filing a motion to stop the move or modify the existing court order.
To evaluate if a move is in the child’s best interests, the court will consider the child’s relationship with both parents and the impact the move will have on the child’s relationship with the parents. Sometimes, a move may not be in the child’s best interest or may be contested by the other parent. Our experienced child custody relocation attorney can help a relocating parent secure a modification of a child custody order, allowing them to move with their child. We can also represent parents who would like to contest the other parent’s relocation.
Contact A Roanoke Custody Relocation Lawyer Today
Our Roanoke child custody attorney is available by appointment for initial consultations. We will work to understand your priorities and assess your legal options. We want to help you develop a strategy designed to preserve your best interests and the best interests of your child. To schedule a consultation, you can send us a message or call our Roanoke office at 540-627-5150.