Moving as a Co-Parent With Help from an Oak Brook Relocation Lawyer

Life can go differently than we expect, and after the dust settles from a divorce, you might find yourself contemplating a fresh start in a new location. But when your life is intertwined with another parent’s through shared responsibilities, relocating with your child becomes less a simple packing exercise and more an in-depth legal journey.

In Illinois, the laws regarding relocation exist to safeguard the parent-child bond with both the moving and non-moving parent, as well as to ensure every move aligns with your child’s best interests. Meeting the requirements of this process demands not just careful logistical planning, but the knowledgeable guidance of an experienced legal professional.

Relocation Under Illinois Law

Illinois law is specific regarding what constitutes “relocating.” A move is legally considered a relocation if:

• You live in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties and intend to move with your child more than 25 miles away from your current home.
• You live in any other Illinois county and intend to move more than 50 miles away.
• You plan to move more than 25 miles away to a residence outside of Illinois.

If your planned move meets any of these criteria, you must follow a formal legal process to approve it. Attempting to move without following these rules can have serious consequences.

Starting the Relocation Process

The process begins with providing formal written notice to the other parent. The notice must be given at least 60 days before the intended move, unless it is not practical to do so. The notice must include the date of the intended move, the new address (if known), and the duration of the relocation if it is not permanent. A copy must also be filed with the court.

If the other parent agrees with the move and signs the notice, the process is simple. The signed notice is filed with the court, and the parenting plan is modified accordingly. However, if the other parent objects or does not respond, you must file a formal petition with the court seeking permission to relocate.

When the Court Decides: The Best Interests of the Child

If you and the other parent cannot agree, the decision will be left to a judge. The court’s focus will be determining what is in the child’s best interests. To do this, a judge will carefully evaluate several factors, including:

• The reasons for the intended relocation and the reasons for the objection.
• Each parent’s relationship with the child.
• The educational opportunities available at both locations.
• The presence of extended family in both the current and proposed locations.
• The potential impacts of the move on the child.
• Whether the move will allow for a reasonable parenting time schedule.
• The wishes of the child, depending on their age and maturity.

Successfully arguing a relocation case often requires presenting a compelling narrative that addresses each of these factors.

Oak Brook Relocation Lawyer on Your Side

With over 20 years of experience, we at Goodman Law Firm understand the challenges that relocation cases can pose. Whether seeking to move or opposing a relocation, we provide the strategic, compassionate guidance needed to protect your parental rights while prioritizing your child’s well-being.

If you are a co-parent dealing with matters concerning relocation, contact Goodman Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and find the legal support you need.