Bowie Child Relocation Attorneys

Dedicated Lawyers Helping Families Modify Custody Orders in Bowie, Maryland

When you divorced, you and your ex established two separate households. Your child custody arrangements, parenting plan, and visitation schedule reflected your situation when they were written. As time passes, one parent may want or need to relocate to a different Maryland city or across the country. Various issues can arise if these plans will require a modification of your child custody agreement.

Whether you want your children to relocate with you or you wish to prevent your ex from taking them to a new location, you need competent legal representation to protect your parental rights and your children's best interests. Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett understands how these situations can affect your family, and we will work with you to craft customized, creative solutions. Our approach is unique and gives you several advantages. Your complimentary consultation lets us discuss your circumstances and demonstrate why working with us will benefit you.

Maryland Courts Focus on Your Children's Best Interests

The reasons behind a relocation request matter. Courts consider both the stated reasons for the proposed move and the potential disruption to the lives of the children involved. Compelling reasons to request a relocation include:

• Remarriage
• Better healthcare or education options
• Job opportunities
• Moving closer to extended family
• Lower cost of living

On the surface, these are all valid reasons. Unfortunately, some parents plan to take their children far from the other parent to undermine their parent/child relationship. If you believe your ex is not serving your children's best interests, our attorneys can help you determine what steps to take to preserve these crucial family relationships.

Reasons parents may have for contesting a relocation request are important as well. For example, a long-distance move could mean far less involvement in the children's lives for the non-custodial parent. Other detrimental effects might include:

• Removing the children from friends, school, and support systems
• Potential trauma for children who are emotionally challenged or who have special needs
• The expense, logistics, and safety issues of children traveling long distances for visitation, especially if transportation by airplane is required
• Ignoring the children's wishes, depending on their ages and maturity levels
• Moving the children into an unsafe neighborhood

Whichever side you are on, you need an effective lawyer to advocate for your parental rights and the best interests of your children.

Requesting Post-Decree Modifications for Issues Related to Relocation

Some parents mistakenly believe they do not require the court's approval to relocate with their children. Others may think a verbal agreement between the parents will protect them. Unless your custody agreement, visitation schedule, and parenting plan are legally modified, you could be held in contempt for violating a court order. If you move with your children to another city or state, your ex may pretend to agree, only to bring legal action against you at a later date. To protect yourself and your children, let us assist you with post-decree modifications.

Unless the relocation request stems from an emergency, such as a financial or health crisis, Maryland courts may require notification at least 90 days before the proposed move.

Let Us Guide You

Our ultimate goal is not to pit one side against the other but to find a solution that allows you and your ex to work together. This may involve modifying a parenting plan so a child can visit over the holidays or seeking a reduction in child support payments to help cover travel expenses. We will work toward creative solutions as we help you craft a plan that all family members can live with.

Contact Our Bowie, MD Parental Relocation Lawyers

At the Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett, our exceptional attention to detail, seasoned guidance, and unwavering support can give you the peace of mind and the confidence you need to meet relocation issues head-on. Call us at 301-262-5500 or contact us online today to arrange your free consultation.