Interstate or Intrastate Child Relocation

Our St. Louis Child Custody Lawyers Can Explain Your Options

When a parent must relocate either within the state, to another state, or to another country, relocation of the children can become a highly disputed matter. At Kallen Law Firm, LLC, our St. Louis reclocation lawyers have experience representing parents facing relocation issues in Missouri courts.

We take a pragmatic approach that uses in-depth knowledge of the latest legal trends to help you achieve your goals. If you need help contact us today.

Complex Child Custody Issues

In relocation cases, there is no middle ground. The relocating parent is either granted permission to relocate or they are not. Because of this, nearly every single relocation case will involve a trial. The court will consider a variety of factors in order to attempt to determine what is in the best interests of the child.

Factors may include:

• Motivations of the relocating parent, whether financial, employment issues, or other opportunities
• Remarriage, and the court will consider whether the new spouse might be able to relocate to St. Louis
• Existing parental bonds, such as a parent who regularly exercises visitation over one who seldom visits or interacts with his or her children
• Hardship, for example, shorter moves are likely to pose less hardship to the visiting parent
• Military service

Negotiation or Modification of Child Custody

Relocation cases are complex, but when the remaining parent wishes to maintain a relationship with the children in spite of the move, it may be possible to find an equitable solution by modifying some other terms of the child custody or child support agreement. If the relocation will be far away, plans must be made to accommodate an ongoing relationship with both parents, and this can require negotiations about the logistics of travel and the cost of travel.

Ultimately, all of these issues are complex and require a skilled child custody lawyer to help navigate the difficulties and develop a solution that is best for the parent and child’s interests.

If you are considering relocation, talking with a St. Louis child custody attorney is the best way to protect your interests. To schedule a free initial consultation, contact our law office by calling 314.441.7793.