After your Rhode Island divorce, you may consider moving for new employment and housing opportunities. If you have children and have primary custody, you may think you are able to make all the final decisions about the specifics of your move. However, depending on your custody agreement, you may need to take into consideration other factors. To help you better prepare for a potential move, you may want to consider some of these items.
What is in your children’s best interests?
If you have decided to move, one of the first aspects you may want to address is informing your ex-spouse about the move and the reasons you want to relocate. Know that no matter what, the two of you should work towards maintaining a healthy relationship and environment for your children.
Should you not agree, you may need to revisit your custody agreement within the court system. It may be best to keep in mind that child custody is determined based on whether it is in your children’s best interests.
Know that a judge will take many factors under advisement regarding your move, such as career, family and educational opportunities. And you should be aware that as the relocating parent, you must meet the legal requirement of proving that a move is beneficial to your children. The judge will make the ultimate decision if you and your ex-spouse cannot agree.
Getting help
Navigating relocation may mean seeking advice and assistance from a family law attorney. Even if you are just contemplating moving, it may be best to set up a time to go over the legal requirements. Taking action prior to making life-altering decisions can help you better prepare to present the reasons for your move and may increase the likelihood of moving to your destination of choice more smoothly.
Moving to enhance your and your children’s opportunities can provide future exponential benefits. And working with your ex-spouse can help ensure that your children retain the close connections they already have with their friends and loved ones in their hometown.
