Child relocation must be in a child’s best interests

After you go through a separation or a divorce, the idea of having your child taken even further away from you can be difficult. Sometimes, one parent needs to move away, though, and it is possible to negotiate a way to stay in touch so the parent who isn’t the custodial parent can continue to have a good relationship with his or her child.

Generally speaking, it’s normal for a case involving moving children to end up in court. No one wants to let their children go far away from them, even if it means an ex-spouse getting a better job or a more stable lifestyle. The important thing to know is that as a parent, you have the right to argue against or for taking your child to a new location, but it’s up to the court to decide if this is in your child’s best interest.

In Massachusetts, the best interests of your child will always be what the court is concerned with. Will relocation really be the best option for the child? The court may ask if the new school is going to be adequate or if the child has family in Massachusetts that he will miss or be upset without. Will the new environment be positive and have a good influence on the child? These are just some of the questions that will need to be answered before a decision can be made.

You may have the best intentions in mind when you want to move, but it’s important to prepare your side of the case. Our website has more information so you can learn about child relocation and how it can affect your life.