Our Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Lawyer Explains Five Questions To Consider Before Relocating
Florida residents are on the move. As many people continue to relocate to the Sunshine State, some long-term and lifelong residents think the grass is greener somewhere else. There are various reasons for relocating, with plenty of potential drawbacks and benefits.
However, when you have children, the situation is more complicated. Our Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing and relocation lawyer explains five questions to consider before making a move.
- What Are Your Reasons For Making The Move?
According to 2024 U.S. Census Bureau figures, the Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metropolitan area is one of the fastest-growing places in the state in terms of new residents. Hundreds of thousands have moved here and throughout Florida over the past several years. However, alongside what is billed as a ‘southern migration,’ plenty of residents are leaving the state.
If you plan on relocating with your children and have a child time-sharing order in place, you will need to inform the court of your specific reasons for moving. Is it for more money, better housing, to be closer to relatives, or other reasons?
- What Are The Potential Drawbacks and Benefits?
Before deciding to relocate, consider all the ramifications it could have for you and your child. The possible benefits are access to better jobs, more educational opportunities, a safer community, and having your child grow up near family. The chaos that often surrounds a move, schedule disruptions, and adjusting to a new environment are potential drawbacks.
- How Will It Impact Your Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Arrangements?
Under the Florida Statutes, child time-sharing is generally encouraged and allows both parents to continue playing an active role in the child’s life. When considering a relocation, any current court orders in place need to factor into the equation.
Does the child spend the majority of time in your home? Is the other parent active in their life and in parenting time arrangements? These are important issues you need to consider.
- What Alternate Plans Can You Make?
If relocating is likely to change current parenting time arrangements, consider what alternate plans you can make. This might include dividing the child’s time between both locations or having them visit the holidays during school breaks, holidays, and vacations.
- Is The Other Parent Willing To Work With You?
If the other parent is willing to work with you, this can make things easier. You can agree on alternative arrangements and request the court approve your plans. If they disagree, you must convince the judge why relocating is in your and your child’s best interests.
Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing And Relocation Lawyer Today
If you are considering a move and have a child time-sharing order in place, speak to Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer Vanessa L. Prieto before taking any actions. We can advise you on your rights and provide the trusted legal representation you need to make the required changes through the courts. To schedule a consultation, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
census.gov/library/stories/2024/03/florida-and-fast-growing-metros.html
browardclerk.org/Divisions/Family
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
