Sarasota Family LawChild Relocation
Sarasota Child Relocation Lawyer
Moving to a new city, state, or even another country can be an exciting opportunity — but when children are involved, especially after a divorce or separation, relocation becomes a legal matter that demands careful handling. At McNary Law, we guide families in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch through child relocation issues with compassionate, strategic legal representation. If you need a trusted Sarasota Child Relocation Lawyer, we are here to advocate for your child’s best interests and protect your parental rights every step of the way.
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Understanding Child Relocation in Florida
Relocating with a child after a divorce or custody arrangement is not as simple as packing boxes. In Florida, a parent must obtain permission either from the other parent or the court before relocating a child more than 50 miles away for 60 consecutive days or longer.
Key Aspects of Florida Child Relocation Law:
Agreement: If both parents agree to the relocation, they can sign a written agreement outlining consent and any changes to the time-sharing schedule.
Petition for Relocation: If there is no agreement, the relocating parent must file a Petition to Relocate, serving the other parent formally.
Best Interests of the Child: The court’s primary consideration is whether the move benefits the child, not just the parent.
Common Reasons for Relocation
New employment opportunities
Pursuing higher education
Better financial stability
Closer proximity to family support
Medical needs requiring relocation
What Happens if One Parent Objects?
When the non-relocating parent objects, it triggers a contested relocation case. The court will schedule a hearing to evaluate:
The reasons for the move
The impact on the child’s relationship with both parents
The feasibility of maintaining a meaningful relationship with the non-relocating parent
The child’s preferences, depending on age and maturity
Any history of domestic violence or abuse
An experienced Sarasota Child Relocation Lawyer can help you present the strongest possible case, whether you’re seeking to move or objecting to the relocation.
How the Court Decides on Child Relocation
Florida courts apply a best interest standard based on several factors, including:
Child’s relationship with both parents: How will the move affect ongoing parental involvement?
Age and needs of the child: Is the move consistent with the child’s developmental needs?
Feasibility of preserving the relationship: Are there practical visitation alternatives, like virtual time-sharing?
Economic and educational enhancement: Will the move improve the child’s quality of life?
Parent’s good faith: Is the relocation motivated by benefits to the child or by animosity toward the other parent?
How McNary Law Can Help You
At McNary Law, we bring a strategic, personalized approach to each child relocation case. Our firm proudly serves Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and surrounding areas, providing focused family law services in:
Child Relocation
Child Custody
Modifications
Divorce
Paternity
We help with:
Negotiating relocation agreements
Preparing and filing petitions or objections
Representing you at mediation or trial
Advocating for your rights and your child’s best interests
Whether you are relocating for a job, education, or family support, or you are concerned about losing meaningful contact with your child, having a dedicated advocate on your side can make all the difference.
Child Relocation FAQs
Do I need the court’s permission to move with my child?
If the move is more than 50 miles and lasts longer than 60 days, yes — unless you have written consent from the other parent.
Can I move first and ask for forgiveness later?
No. Moving without proper consent or court approval can result in serious legal consequences, including a change of custody.
What if the other parent refuses to consent to the move?
You must file a Petition to Relocate and prove to the court that the move is in the child’s best interests.
Will the court consider my new spouse’s job opportunities?
Yes. Courts consider the economic and social benefits of the move, including those related to a new spouse.
Final Thoughts
McNary Law handles a wide range of family law matters, including Child Relocation, Child Custody, Modifications, and Paternity. We proudly serve clients in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Lakewood Ranch, ensuring families across Manatee and Sarasota Counties receive the dedicated representation they deserveService AreasPractice Areas.
If you are searching for a Sarasota Child Relocation Lawyer or need advice about family law, McNary Law is ready to help.
Contact McNary Law today to schedule a consultation and protect what matters most — your relationship with your child.
