Parental Relocation Lawyers in Newton and Greater Boston Area
One of the most complex, contentious situations that can arise after divorce — or between unmarried parents with custody, parenting time on and support orders in force — is the primary custodial parent's desire to move away with a child. It is common for a parent to decide that relocation would be best for him or herself and for children, often due to better job opportunities, closer proximity to extended family or other reasons.
Having sole or primary physical custody does not entitle a mother or father to move children outside of Massachusetts without the other parent's consent or a court order. While there is no specific statute governing child removal to another location within the Commonwealth, a move of any significant distance may justify modification of custody and parenting time, support and certain other orders.
Protecting Children's Well-Being And Parents' Rights In Move-Away Situations
At Simonds Family Law & Mediation, PLLC, in Newton and surrounding areas, Attorney Simonds has extensive experience helping families resolve tough disputes, including those involving proposed parental and child relocation. We strive to obtain workable agreements through direct negotiation or mediation whenever possible, but we are also proven litigators who stand up for our clients' parental rights in court. You can turn to us for guidance and advocacy if, for example:
- You are a custodial parent who believes that moving elsewhere will be the best thing for your child or children, even though different arrangements may be necessary to ensure continued contact with the noncustodial parent.
- You are a lawful parent with parenting time rights who either wishes to prevent relocation of your children or pursue modifications of orders to effectively address the greater distance and/or the financial demands it will create.
Targeting Workable, Efficient Agreements, But Always Prepared For Litigation
Our family law services are knowledgeable, practical and comprehensive. Attorney Simonds will draw upon her experience as a litigator, mediator, Guardian ad Litem and Parenting Coordinator in removal cases and will make the effort to understand your goals and the nuances of your unique case. Attorney Simonds always attempts to resolve removal cases through negotiation or mediation, but she also understands that removal cases often go to trial, and she does not hesitate to litigate these types of cases, all the way through trial, if necessary.
Prompt action to learn your legal rights and obligations is critical if you wish to move away with children or protect your rights as a loving, involved parent. To talk through your concerns in an initial consultation, please call (857) 858-1031 or
send us an email now.
Simonds Family Law and Mediation, PLLC
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