On the one hand, the Michigan court system recognizes that life’s circumstances are subject to change and it sometimes becomes necessary for one divorced parent to relocate to another city or state. On the other hand, the best interests of the child or children inform every decision that the courts make in regard to whatever post-divorce issues arise. We at the law office of Lisa Stern know that you do not want to lose contact with your children just because of a change of circumstances, nor do you wish to be noncompliant with your divorce orders. It may help to lessen the confusion and difficulty of a parental relocation if you understand the factors that the court takes into consideration when approving parental relocation.
You must be able to demonstrate to the court that you have a legitimate reason for relocating. The court is unlikely to approve the relocation request if it has reason to believe that your motive in seeking it is to spite the other parent or to try to secure a financial advantage over him or her. The expectation is that you will be able to demonstrate how the move will improve the child’s quality of life as well as your own.
Everyone involved in the case, including you, the child(ren) and the court, wants to see the parent-child relationship continue following the relocation. You should seek out realistic opportunities by which visitation can continue following the relocation. Additionally, the court is more likely to approve your request if you can demonstrate your likely compliance with whatever visitation orders the court issues in substitution for the initial orders.
There can be distinct challenges involved in seeking and executing parental relocation requests. More information is available on our website.