Contacting the other parent should be one of the first things done before moving to another state. This will allow each parent to decide on a schedule that works for everyone involved and ensure that there are no legal issues regarding kidnapping if the parent who moves the child without anyone’s knowledge. In the event that one parent does not give permission for the other to move to another state, then the court system can make a decision based on what is best for the child.

The D’Onofrio test is often used if the parent wants to relocate to an area that likely won’t work with the custody and visitation arrangements that have already been made. When the parent with sole custody wants to relocate, then there is usually no impact on the overall environment for the child or the parents. However, if there is a joint custody agreement, then the court will work to determine who the child should spend more time with before making a decision as to whether to give permission for the move.

Due to going to school or looking for a new job, a parent might decide to move to another state. An attorney may file the proper documents with the court on their behalf so that the parent can properly complete the relocation while still maintaining visitation on the arranged schedule. The attorney may also help present their client’s reasons for moving to another state if the other parent has objections.