RELOCATIONS

What is a relocation and when do I need it?

Florida law prohibits a parent of a child from moving more than 50 miles from their primary residence without

(A)        the agreement of the other parent or

(B)        the filing of a petition for relocation. If a parent wishes to relocate their child and their residence, that parent must file a petition with the Court requesting permission for the relocation, provide the reason for the relocation, and explain how the child would benefit from the move.

What does a court consider when determining whether relocation is in a child’s best interest?

Section 61.13001(7), Florida Statutes, provides numerous factors that a court must consider when determining whether relocation is in the child’s best interest. The court can
put more weight on one factor than on others, depending on the case. The statutory factors are as follows:

(A)        The nature, quality, extent of involvement, and duration of the child’s relationship with the parent or other person proposing to relocate with the child and with the nonrelocating parent, other persons, siblings, half-siblings, and other significant persons in the child’s life.

(B)        The age and developmental stage of the child, the needs of the child, and the likely impact the relocation will have on the child’s physical, educational, and emotional development, taking into consideration any special needs of the child.

(C)        The feasibility of preserving the relationship between the nonrelocating parent or other person and the child through substitute arrangements that take into consideration the logistics of contact, access, and time-sharing, as well as the financial circumstances of the parties; whether those factors are sufficient to foster a continuing meaningful relationship between the child and the nonrelocating parent or other person; and the likelihood of compliance with the substitute arrangements by the relocating parent or other person once he or she is out of the jurisdiction of the court.

(D)        The child’s preference, taking into consideration the age and maturity of the child.

(E)        Whether the relocation will enhance the general quality of life for both the parent or other person seeking the relocation and the child, including, but not limited to, financial or emotional benefits or educational opportunities.

(F)        The reasons each parent or other person is seeking or opposing the relocation.

(G)        The current employment and economic circumstances of each parent or other person and whether the proposed relocation is necessary to improve the economic circumstances of the parent or other person seeking relocation of the child.

(H)        That the relocation is sought in good faith and the extent to which the objecting parent has fulfilled his or her financial obligations to the parent or other person seeking relocation, including child support, spousal support, and marital property and marital debt obligations.

(I)        The career and other opportunities available to the objecting parent or other person if the relocation occurs.

(J)        A history of substance abuse or domestic violence as defined in s. 741.28 or which meets the criteria of s. 39.806(1)(d) by either parent, including a consideration of the severity of such conduct and the failure or success of any attempts at rehabilitation.

(K)        Any other factor affecting the best interest of the child or as set forth in s. 61.13.

If you are seeking to relocate, don’t hesitate. Call Agosto Law as soon as possible so you and your child can move safely without being in contempt of court.