Child custody is one of the arrangements separating couples must agree on during the divorce process. Often, child custody disputes drift families apart as disagreements continue about who the child should stay with. The conflict further intensifies when one of the parents hopes to relocate the child after the divorce.
Relocation is a challenging process that requires thorough consideration. Here are three factors you need to consider when finalizing your child’s relocation.
Family and community ties
Divorce entails significant changes in the family’s life, especially when your child is young. Younger children are more vulnerable to disruptions in the relationships and attachments they already built with their family and community. Moving away from their comfort zone could affect their development and mental health.
During this transition, keeping your children’s environment stable is essential. In your parenting plan, include ways in which your child can keep a long-distance relationship with their relatives and friends.
Visitation rights
Although challenging, you must agree on a visitation schedule with the noncustodial parent. Your relocation should not deprive the other parent’s right to care for your child. Strong parent-child relationships should continue through other means, such as consistent communication and regular involvement in your child’s activities. It is important to keep constant routines that meet your child’s expectations.
Legal concerns
In Hawaii, child relocation after a divorce often involves custody modification. The family court will evaluate your proposed arrangement to see if it serves the child’s best interest. The relocating parent must demonstrate that the move would have a significant positive impact on the child’s education, health, security and overall development. The court will also consider the impact of the custody modification on both sides of the family.
Each family situation is unique, and relocation decisions should prioritize the children’s well-being. Parents, family members and legal professionals must collaborate to develop a strong parenting plan to ensure every decision is centered on the child.
