Move-aways/Relocation

South Florida Lawyer Handling Parental Relocation Cases

Times have changed. Many people no longer live in the same town, city or state for their entire lives. Moving for a new job or even a change of pace has become commonplace. Unfortunately, when these relocations involve families with an existing child custody agreement, problems can arise.

At the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, area Law Offices of Jerome P. Ventura, P.A., we represent parents seeking to relocate, as well as parents opposing any relocation. Our founding attorney, Jerome Ventura, has more than 25 years of family law experience. He understands the nuances of child custody, visitation and parental relocation.

If you are planning to relocate out of state with your child or do not agree with the other parent's decision to move away, we can help. Contact us at 954-438-2828 to discuss your case. We offer a limited initial consultation at no charge.

Florida Parental Relocation Laws

A custodial parent needs court approval to move a child out of the area (more than 50 miles) if the move would affect the other parent's visitation rights. In addition, Florida law mandates certain procedures pertaining to parental relocation. For example, a petition to relocate must be served upon the child's non-relocating parent prior to any move. The other parent will then be given 20 days to object to the relocation. If they do object, a relocation hearing must be held.

At the relocation hearing, the court will consider a multitude of factors in determining whether the move is in the child's best interests, including:

• The nature and quality of the child's relationship with the parent seeking the relocation and the parent opposing the relocation
• The age and needs of the child, as well as the overall effect of the relocation on the child
• How the relocation will affect the visitation arrangement of the non-custodial parent
• The current employment status of both parents

Please note, any resulting relocation will result in a necessary modification of the original child custody agreement.

Contact the Law Offices of Jerome Ventura, P.A.

Our firm has enjoyed great success representing both parents opposing relocation and those seeking it. Regardless of your position, we will work to build a case that shows the court why your position is in the best interests of your child.

Contact us at 954-438-2828 to arrange a consultation. Evening appointments are available.

To help us better understand your parental relocation case, please complete our Family Law Intake Form prior to your first visit.