Crystal Lake, Illinois, Child Custody Modification Attorney

Following the completion of a divorce and the signing and execution of all documents, changed circumstances may necessitate a modification of the original decree. Perhaps the most complex and emotional aspect of modifying a divorce agreement is the prospect of one divorced parent moving out of state or out of the country.

Unpredictable Nature of Decisions

The outcomes in cases involving removal or relocation are unpredictable. We have seen a court allow a parent to move to Switzerland in one case, and another court deny a parent's request to move three hours north of his ex-spouse.

Maintaining Relationships after Parent-Child Relocation

Relationships between a parent staying behind and his or her child who is moving away are taken into account. These cases tend to be fact-specific as well. Just as in any other issue that involves child custody and visitation, the best interests of the child are paramount. Improved health in another state, family connections in the new hometown, or a job offer or transfer providing greater opportunity and income are considered legitimate reasons to move. However, the court carefully assesses whether the move has a legitimate purpose or is simply to deny opportunity for the other parent to be with the child.

Both parents must agree upon a reasonable modification of the existing custody and visitation schedule. If one parent is required to drive longer or fly, that can be considered an expense that would reduce child support amounts. The actual amount of child custody could change as well, or the existing amount of parenting time may be concentrated into several weeks or a summer. At the Law Office of Christopher Haaff, in Crystal Lake, Illinois, we will handle all the complicated aspects of your removal/relocation case.

Contact Us

To obtain more information about removal or relocation or to schedule an appointment with an experienced child custody modification lawyer, please contact us.