Is Relocation in the Child's Best Interests?
Florida's laws regarding relocation changed on October 1, 2006. It is now more difficult — but not impossible — for one parent to move away from the other and take the child along. A relocating parent must go to greater lengths to show that relocation is in the child's best interests.
If you wish to relocate, or if you want to prevent another parent from relocating, you should contact an experienced lawyer to make sure your rights are respected. At the law firm of Jeffrey S. Koster, P.L., we provide compassionate, aggressive and experienced representation to protect the best interests of our clients and their children. For an initial consultation, call us today at 866.941.1325 or contact our offices online.
Florida's New Relocation Procedures
Under Florida's new law, a parent who wishes to relocate must serve the other parent with a Notice of Intent to Relocate. The party who receives the notice has 30 days to object. If they don't object within 30 days, the court will automatically allow the relocation. If they do object, then the relocating parent has to prove to the court that relocation is in the child's best interests.
The court will consider a number of factors in determining if relocation is in the child's best interests. Relevant factors include:
- Do the advantages of relocating outweigh the disadvantages of being separated from the father or mother?
- Will the relocating parent be able to provide a better environment for the child in the new location?
- Will the child have access to better schools?
- How will the parenting plan and child support arrangements be affected?
If the relocation will cause a substantial change in the relationship between the child and the non-relocating parent, the issue often has to be resolved through litigation. Be sure that your attorney has the experience necessary to present a persuasive case.
To schedule an initial consultation with attorney Jeffrey S. Koster, call our office today at 866.941.1325 or contact us online. Mr. Koster is an experienced trial lawyer and he personally handles every case at our firm. Located in Lutz, Florida, we serve clients throughout the Tampa metro area and beyond.
