Life after a divorce or separation often brings new opportunities, which may include moving to a new home. When you share children with an ex-partner, however, moving is not always a simple process. Illinois law has specific rules for when one parent wants to relocate with their child, and understanding these laws is essential to protect your parental rights and prioritize your child’s well-being.
At Reifman Law Offices, we recognize that relocation matters can be sensitive and are often emotionally charged. We are here to provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you through this sometimes complex process, whether you are seeking to move or responding to a relocation request from your child’s other parent.
Not every move is considered a legal “relocation” that requires court involvement. According to Illinois law, a move qualifies as a relocation based on the distance from the child’s current primary home.
If your planned move does not meet one of these distance requirements, you can typically move without needing the other parent’s permission or a court order, though you should always ensure the move does not disrupt your existing parenting plan.
If your move qualifies as a relocation, you must follow a specific legal process. This process is designed to ensure that the move is in the child’s best interests and that both parents’ rights are respected.
When a judge reviews a relocation request, their decision is based on the child’s best interests. Illinois statutes provide several factors for the court to consider, including:
The court will carefully weigh these and other relevant factors to determine if the benefits of the move for the child outweigh the potential disruption to their life and relationship with the non-moving parent.
We assist individuals and families in Cook, Lake, and DuPage counties in Illinois.
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