Child custody relocation requests in Minnesota

March 06, 2013

The ending of a relationship is often a very difficult time emotionally for all parties involved. If the couple has children, it will be necessary to determine child custody and parenting time agreements that allows parents to remain a part of the lives of their children. Sometimes parents are able to work out an arrangement to submit to the court for approval. However, if they are unable to come to an agreement on their own, the court will issue an order that both parties may dislike.

Once child custody has been established, it can be very difficult to change and it will take a major change in circumstances before the court will consider modifying the order. Often, this scenario arises when one of the parents is not honoring the arrangements that have been put in place. This could force the court to decide if the original agreement is still in the best interests of the child.

However, not every child custody modification arises due to conflict between the parents. In some cases, custodial parents need to leave the area because they may not be able to find work in their chosen profession. Before they can relocate out of state with the child, they will need to request the other parent's permission or court's permission.

When considering a relocation request in Minnesota, the court will examine several factors to determine if the parent will be allowed to move. The court will look at the relationship between the child and moving parent. It will also analyze the effect that the move will have on the child, and the child's future development. If the child is of sufficient age and maturity to offer input about the potential move out of state, their ideas and preferences will be taken under consideration as well.

Courts will attempt to find a resolution so that the non-relocating party is able to remain an important part of the child's life. This can include some type of financial arrangement so that the expenses of travel do not prevent a parent from being able to have parenting time with the child.

The reason for the relocation will matter as well. For example, if the move is necessary to maintain economic stability for a parent and child, it could receive a more favorable view from the court.

If you have questions concerning child custody issues or moving out of state with your child, speak to an experienced family law attorney about your specific situation. Agreements made concerning custody matters can be very difficult to change, so it is important that you understand the decisions you make when custody is determined.

Each case is different, meaning that each parent will have certain wants and needs that they hope to see addressed in any child custody agreement. It is important to work with an attorney that can help you develop a custody or visitation plan that meets those needs.

Article provided by Bloch and Whitehouse, P.A.
Visit us at www.blochandwhitehouse.com