Living in Hawaii means island hopping is part of life. However, when your co-parent wants to relocate to another island with your child, the situation becomes far more complex than a simple flight across the water. Under Hawaii law, any significant change in a child’s residence requires careful legal consideration.
Your rights matter
When you learn that your co-parent intends to move with your child to a different island in Hawaii, you have the legal right to object. Whether you are a custodial or non-custodial parent, your relationship with your child deserves protection.
What courts look for
Hawaii courts carefully evaluate several crucial elements when considering inter-island moves:
- The potential impact on your child’s relationship with both parents
- Educational and social opportunities on both islands
- Extended family support systems
- Your child’s ties to their current community
- The feasibility of maintaining meaningful contact
- The reason for the proposed move
- The child’s preferences (if age-appropriate)
A clear picture of these factors can help you build a stronger case with your legal team.
Making your voice heard
If you oppose the move, timing is critical. You typically have 30 days to file a formal objection with the court before any relocation occurs. The court may require both parents to attempt mediation before proceeding to a hearing. During this process, you can advocate for specific arrangements that protect your parent-child relationship, such as extended school break visits, regular video calls, fair distribution of travel costs and flexible makeup parenting time for missed visits.
Moving forward
Inter-island moves bring distinct challenges. Understanding your rights is the first step toward protecting your relationship with your child. Every case is unique, and the complexities of relocation cases often require a deep understanding of Hawaii family law. Working with experienced professionals can help protect you while keeping your child’s best interests at heart.
Remember, there are legal pathways to maintain your crucial role in your child’s life, regardless of which island you call home.
