Family Lawyer - Parent Relocation

Serving Detroit, Ann Arbor and all of Michigan

Relocation can be a very difficult issue for divorced couples with children. If you or your child's other parent has received an out of state job offer, or are seeking to relocate for some other reason, you can find yourself in a difficult situation.

Custodial parents in Michigan must receive prior written permission from the court to make a change of domicile out of state, or to move a minor child more than 100 miles from his/her place of residence at the time that the complaint for divorce was filed.

When determining whether to permit a custodial parent to make the move, the court will consider things such as:

• Whether the change of domicile will benefit the child. For example, whether the move will result in better schooling or financial circumstances for the child.
• Whether there are reasonable visitation alternatives available to the non-custodial parent. For example, whether the custodial parent offers extended visitation during summer vacations to replace the current weekly visitation schedule.
• What degree of inconvenience the move might cause the non-custodial parent. For example, whether the change of domicile might interfere with the non-custodial parent's ability to see his or her child.
• Whether any convenience to the non-custodial parent can be mitigated, and how. For example, the court may order that custodial parent help offset additional travel costs for visitation.

If you need help

If you or your child's other parent are considering a change of domicile, it is important that you get the best representation you can to protect your interests and the interests of your child.

Family lawyer Robert G. Morrison practices only family law. He knows the family court system, and he's committed to helping his clients get the results they need to move on with their lives.

Call or click here to schedule your free personal consultation, and our experienced staff will review your case with you in detail.

See also:

• Relocation Frequently Asked Questions
• Changes to Permanent Orders
• Child Support
• Custody and Visitation