Whether you share custody of your child or you have sole custody, you may have a parenting plan in place that allows the non-custodial parent to visit your child on certain scheduled days. In many cases, it is important for a child to maintain a healthy relationship with both parents, and spending time with the child fosters that bond. When a parent chooses to move a distance away from the child, however, the parenting plan may have to be modified to reflect changes in the visitation schedule. In fact, parental relocation of either the custodial or noncustodial parent can mean significant changes for everyone involved.
Before parents can relocate, they must abide by certain state regulations and obtain permission from the other parent, as well as the court if they are moving more than 100 miles away. According to Michigan state legislature, the court may take several factors into consideration prior to approving the move. These factors include circumstances, such as if the change will improve the child’s quality of life, will affect the child’s relationship with the noncustodial parent, the intent for the move and whether domestic violence is involved.
The court may also look at how the move will affect the parenting time with the child. Will the parent still be able to pick up the child on his or her scheduled weekends? Will the parent be able to move to a seasonal schedule and keep the child for half of the summer and holidays? In general, it is important to keep the best interests of the child in mind when modifying the parenting plan and relocating.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.