RELOCATION

Understanding Relocation in Florida Family Law

Relocation cases can be complex, as they involve significant changes to child custody and timesharing arrangements. Whether you are a parent seeking to move with your child or a parent opposing a relocation request, Gulf Coast Divorce is here to help. We provide strategic legal guidance to ensure that your parental rights and your child’s best interests are protected.

Legal Requirements for Parental Relocation

In Florida, a parent who wishes to relocate with a child more than 50 miles away for at least 60 consecutive days must comply with state laws and obtain legal approval. This typically involves:

• Seeking Consent from the Other Parent: If both parents agree to the move, a written agreement outlining new timesharing and transportation arrangements can be filed with the court.
• Filing a Petition for Relocation: If the other parent does not consent, the relocating parent must file a formal petition with the court.
• Court Hearing on Relocation: If contested, the court will hold a hearing to determine whether relocation is in the child's best interest.

Factors Courts Consider in Relocation Cases

When ruling on relocation cases, Florida courts evaluate multiple factors, including:

• Best Interests of the Child: The court prioritizes the child’s emotional, educational, and social well-being.
• Reason for Relocation: The relocating parent must provide a valid reason, such as employment opportunities, better living conditions, or proximity to family support.
• Impact on the Parent-Child Relationship: The court assesses how the move will affect the non-relocating parent’s ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.
• Alternative Timesharing Arrangements: A proposed plan to ensure continued contact with the non-relocating parent is considered.
• Child’s Preference: If the child is mature enough, their wishes may be taken into account.
• History of Co-Parenting Compliance: A parent’s ability to encourage and support the child’s relationship with the other parent is also examined.

How Gulf Coast Divorce Can Help with Relocation Cases

Our firm has extensive experience handling relocation cases, both for parents seeking to relocate and those opposing a move. We provide:

• Legal Counsel on Relocation Laws: We guide you through Florida’s legal requirements to ensure compliance.
• Petition Filing and Court Representation: Whether you are requesting or contesting a relocation, we prepare compelling legal arguments for your case.
• Negotiation of Agreements: We help parents reach mutually beneficial agreements that minimize conflict and disruption for the child.
• Modification of Parenting Plans: If relocation is approved, we work to create new timesharing and visitation schedules that serve the child’s best interests.

Opposing a Parental Relocation

If you are a parent opposing your child’s relocation, it is critical to act quickly. Our firm can help you:

• Challenge the Relocation Request: We present evidence to show that the move is not in the child’s best interests.
• Advocate for Continued Timesharing: We propose alternative solutions that allow the child to maintain a strong bond with both parents.
• Protect Your Parental Rights: We ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are defended in court.

Modifying Custody and Timesharing After Relocation

If relocation is granted, adjustments to the existing parenting plan may be necessary. Our firm assists with:

• Creating Long-Distance Visitation Schedules
• Addressing Travel Expenses for Timesharing
• Ensuring Virtual Communication Rights for Non-Relocating Parents

Why Choose Gulf Coast Divorce for Your Relocation Case?

• Experienced Family Law Attorneys: We have successfully handled numerous relocation cases, representing both relocating and non-relocating parents.
• Child-Focused Representation: We prioritize your child’s best interests while ensuring your parental rights are protected.
• Strategic Legal Advocacy: Whether through mediation or litigation, we build strong cases to achieve favorable outcomes.
• Comprehensive Legal Support: From filing petitions to court representation, we provide full legal assistance throughout the relocation process.

Secure Your Parental Rights Today

Relocation cases require knowledgeable legal representation to navigate complex family law statutes and court proceedings. Whether you are seeking to relocate with your child or need to oppose a relocation request, Gulf Coast Divorce is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.