Child Custody Relocation

Custodial parent moving out of state

What’s one of the toughest issues related to child custody? Relocation. Our child custody attorneys can advise you on the legal way to handle relocating or contesting relocation.

As our world shrinks — and jobs become increasingly mobile — it is more and more common to see a primary, custodial parent moving out of state. Or often, he or she is staying in state but relocating to another school district.

If you’re not the primary parent, you’ve probably got questions. Is this legal? Can a custodial parent move out of state? In a word, yes. However, there are laws that govern the proper way to make a move.

If you have a complicated parenting situation, it's all the more important to learn your rights and act quickly to remain an active part of your child's life. For example, you may be an unmarried parent. In your case, we can quickly get you up to speed on Washington's custody laws for unmarried parents and help you pursue your parental rights. 

Limits on a custodial parent moving out of state

The primary residential parent must give notice to the other parent of their intended move prior to the move occurring according to Washington State’s laws pertaining to child custody. Relocation can’t occur without notice of the intended move being provided to the non-primary parent so that he or she can have an opportunity to object to the move.

If a parent objects to the relocation, the court will make a determination of whether or not it is in the child’s best interest to relocate with the primary residential parent.

Whether you’re a primary parent looking to make a move or a non-custodial parent trying to contest a move, your success in court may depend in large part on the quality of your counsel.

Our Child Custody Relocation Expertise

At Helland Law Group, we can advise you of the many legal issues that often arise during relocations. Our attorneys have logged many hours both contesting and defending child custody relocations. Call or click to get a free 30-minute consultation so that we can discuss your legal rights with you.

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