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What you should know about child custody relocation

On Behalf of | Apr 26, 2022 | Child Custody And Visitation |

If you’ve recently finalized your divorce, you may be looking for new opportunities that will require you to move to another city or state to start your new life. If you and your ex have children, you’ll have to follow child custody guidelines when it comes to relocation. As a Tennessee resident, here are some important details to keep in mind following your divorce.

Good faith and bad faith

In order for a judge to rule in favor of a parent relocating, the judge must see that the parent is making the move in good faith. When it comes to child custody, a “good faith” move is one that will allow the child to be closer to family members who can provide additional support. Or, the move could provide the parent with better job opportunities, which would be in the best interest of the children. The judge may also approve the relocation if the parent who is moving is doing so to continue their education, or if the noncustodial parent will still be able to visit the children regularly.

A bad faith move, on the other hand, is one that does not serve the best interest of the children. If the custodial parent is moving out of spite or is trying to keep the noncustodial parent from seeing the children, this is considered a “bad faith” move. The judge will also rule that a move is in bad faith if the noncustodial parent wants to relocate to avoid paying child support or reduce the payments.

The best interest of the child

The child custody courts will evaluate the reasons for parental relocation to make sure the move is in the child’s best interest.

A move that would not severely disrupt the child’s daily routine, a move to a better school, or a move near trusted loved ones who can help care for the child will likely sway the court’s decision to allow a parent to move.

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