Glen Burnie, MD Parental Relocation Lawyers

Skilled Lawyers Representing Families in Parental Relocation Cases in Glen Burnie, Maryland

A parent moving with their child after a divorce can have significant implications for an existing child custody order. When the parents disagree about how a move should be handled, it falls to the courts of family law to resolve the debate. If you are going through a dispute over a proposed parental relocation, a Glen Burnie child custody attorney can represent you in court and argue on your behalf.

At Zide Law Group, LLC, we understand how emotional and stressful a parental relocation can be for all parties. When you work with our firm, you will receive compassionate advocacy for your family's unique needs.

What Qualifies as Parental Relocation?

In Maryland, parental relocation refers to any change of residence of the primary custodial parent, whether inside or outside of the state. If you intend to relocate with your child, you must give at least 90 days' notice to your co-parent, even if the move does not seem major. A verbal notice or text message will not suffice—you will have to give the notice through certified mail.

If both you and your co-parent agree to the move, then the court may not have to get involved. However, if the non-custodial parent objects to the relocation, then a hearing will be held to determine whether or not the move is in the child's best interests. At Zide Law Group, LLC, our family law attorneys can help you prepare for this hearing. We can build a case on your behalf and anticipate possible counterarguments from your co-parent, providing you with strong legal counsel.

When Parents Choose to Relocate

There are many good reasons for a parent to consider relocating with their child. A new job opportunity with a significant pay increase can give a parent real motivation to move, especially if it would mean an increased quality of life for the child.

Not all relocations are motivated by financial reasons, though economic factors can play a large role. For instance, moving closer to extended family for a support network can be a good reason to relocate.

Courtroom Hearings for Parental Relocation in Maryland

At a hearing for a contested parental relocation, both you and your co-parent will have the opportunity to state your case and present evidence for your preferred outcome. The courts will consider how the proposed move will impact the child's relationship with the non-custodial parent, and whether or not a modification of custody would be able to preserve that parent's bond with the child.

Furthermore, the courts will also take the child's opportunities into account. If the new residence has appealing features, such as a better school, access to better healthcare, supportive family members, or other positives, the parent looking to relocate may receive greater consideration. The move must also be in good faith, rather than just to cut the other parent out of the child's life.

Lastly, the child's own preferences will not be discounted in court. If the child is old enough to understand what the proposed move entails, their wishes may be heard in court, though it will not be the sole deciding factor. No matter if you are for or against a relocation, our lawyers can aggressively advocate for you in a relocation hearing.

Meet With a Glen Burnie, Maryland Parental Relocation Lawyer Today

Disputes about parental relocation can be difficult to handle on your own. A Glen Burnie child custody attorney can stand up for you in court while offering qualified legal advice.

Zide Law Group, LLC is a devoted advocate for parents across the state of Maryland. To schedule an initial consultation with our attorneys, call our offices at 410-760-9433 or contact us online.