After the dust settles from a divorce, Wisconsin parents may decide to move and get a fresh start somewhere else. However, moving may create a conflict with child custody and make it difficult for the noncustodial parent to see the children. Before moving, there are several key factors that families should consider.
The biggest factor of all is what is in the best interest of the child. If the decision is brought before the court, this interest overrules that of a parent’s desire to make more money or live somewhere else. The court will also consider if the move will improve the child and parent’s quality of life. Different children can be impacted by relocating in different ways.
The party that is not moving may decide to contest the relocation. If this occurs, the other party will basically have to prove that the child will not be detrimentally impacted to a significant degree. Loved ones might scrutinize the decision to move and criticize the custodial parent’s decision. Some may believe that the decision was made out of spite and anger. To avoid these types of accusations, custodial parents should make this type of decision when they are more objective and not impacted by their high emotions. The custodial parent should be able to show that the child’s quality of life will improve even though he or she will be separated from the noncustodial parent.
If a parent has custody of a child and wants to move, he or she may want to consult with a family law attorney. The attorney may be able to explain if there is anything in the custody order that precludes this action or the steps the parent can take if the other parent contests the relocation.
Source: The Huffington Post, “6 Things to Expect and Consider When Relocating with Children After Divorce“, Andrea Moore, December 18, 2013
