Hot Springs Relocations Attorneys
Helping Arkansas parents navigate child relocation cases
Sometimes divorced parents with custody rights wish to relocate themselves for better financial or educational opportunities. The other parent may dispute the move if it would put a strain on their relationship with the child. In that event, court permission is required. At Schnipper, Britton & Stobaugh, we are experienced in the full range of Arkansas child custody matters. Our Hot Springs relocation attorneys advise parents seeking or opposing relocation about the requirements that must be met.
Legal requirements for child relocation in Arkansas
When a custodial parent wishes to move away with a child, they must formally notify the other parent in advance. Although no specific period of time is set by law, the purpose of the notice requirement is to allow time for the other parent to respond and, if opposed, to file an objection in court. If the non-relocating parent objects, the court may have to make the decision based on whether the move preserves that parent’s visitation rights and is in the child’s best interests.
Common reasons parents seek relocation
A parent may seek to relocate for a better job opportunity, better educational opportunities for themselves or their child, or for increased family support. Every situation is unique to the parties involved and their individual circumstances. Our Hot Springs family law attorney assesses the individual needs and goals of clients in helping our client navigate the issues.
Challenges and disputes in relocation cases
It is not unusual for a non-relocating parent to object to their child moving away from them, especially over long distances. If disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation and compromise between the parties, our law firm helps clients in these contested relocation cases by presenting evidence to show the court why the move does or does not benefit the child.
How courts evaluate the best interests of the child
In deciding if a move is in the child’s best interest, a judge evaluates multiple factors, such as:
- The specific reason for the move
- Impacts to the child’s relationship with the non-relocating parent and other family members
- How the relocation may affect the child’s stability
- The distance of the move
- Implications to custody and visitation agreements
- Children’s preferences depending on their age
As attorneys experienced in Arkansas child custody law, we know how to present the strongest case in our client’s behalf.
Modifying custody and visitation agreements
Relocation may result in changes to the child custody plan and/or the visitation agreement. Primary custody could potentially be awarded to the non-relocating parent if the move would be too disruptive to the parent-child relationship. Or, the non-relocating parent might be given more summer vacation time or holidays with the child to make up for not seeing the child as regularly due to the increased distance. We assist parents in petitioning the court for modifications to parenting time and custody orders in view of the planned relocation.
Contact a diligent child relocation lawyer in Hot Springs for help
Schnipper, Britton & Stobaugh in Hot Springs effectively represents parents throughout Arkansas in child relocation matters. Please call us at 501-762-0887 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.