As a single parent with shared custody of your child, you will relish the opportunity to have quality time with your child or childrenl; however, you will likely feel constrained by the lack of freedom that co-parenting with an ex-partner creates. However, you cannot let your shared custody situation from pursuing a better life for you and your children.
Perhaps you have found a better job, want to be closer to your extended family or believe that relocation will give your children a better quality of life. Whatever the reason, relocation for a single parent is a big decision, but often a positive and exciting one.
How do I prepare for the move?
The most important thing that you can do from a child custody perspective is to inform the other parent of your intention to relocate as soon as possible. Having open communication with them can go a long way in preventing conflicts that do not need to happen. The outcome of this communication will likely depend on how far you plan on moving, and how much the current parenting plan will be affected.
What if the courts need to get involved?
If the courts need to get involved with a child custody conflict in regard to your plans to relocate, it may be reassuring for you to know that they will always rule in the child’s best interests. Therefore, if there is a compelling case for your relocation, you will probably have a positive result.
If you are planning a relocation, it is important to be very well-prepared from a child custody perspective. You should also make sure to maintain extremely good communication with the other parent.
Source: Working Mother, “8 Tips for Relocating as a Single Parent,” accessed Jan. 11, 2018
