Panama City Divorce Lawyer

Parental Relocation After Divorce in Panama City

A parent who has been awarded child custody at the conclusion of a divorce does not have sole discretion in deciding whether to move with the children. If the other parent has shared custody or rights of visitation, it is first necessary to secure that parent's consent to the move, or to gain the approval of the court. Whether you are seeking to relocate or if you need to block the move so that you can keep your child nearby, the team at Seaton Law Offices, P.A. is ready to help with your family law matter.

Steps for Parental Relocation Following Divorce

If the other parent approves of the move, you merely need to present the court with a signed written agreement which proves that the other parent has granted consent and which details how the two of you will provide for future visitation and transportation of the children. On the other hand, if the non-custodial parent opposes your move, you will have to file a Petition to Relocate, and may have to fight the matter in court.

The petition must be filed in court and served upon the other parent, who will then have 20 days to contest the relocation. In any case involving a relocation of more than 50 miles from the current home, the court will weigh the evidence to determine whether the move is necessary and in the best interests of the children.

Common reasons which are considered valid for moving include offers of more favorable employment, being closer to extended family and placing distance between the children and a parent who has a history of domestic violence. In addition to these factors, it may also be effective to demonstrate that the non-custodial parent has neglected the existing visitation rights and has not spent considerable time with the children.

If you are seeking to block the move, we will seek to present evidence for why the children would be better off staying with you, or even that the other parent is attempting to relocate merely to spite you or deprive you of the right to see the children.