The Difficult Issues of Relocating Children in Illinois Divorce Cases: What You Need to Know

 Posted on March 14, 2023 in Divorce

Child relocation during a divorce can be a complex and emotional issue, and parents in Naperville, Illinois, must be aware of the difficulties that may arise during this process. When parents cannot agree on the relocation of their child, the court will make a judgment that is in the best interests of the child. This is where an attorney familiar with complex child issues can help you.

Deciding The Child’s Best Interests

Choosing what is in the best interests of the child is one of the trickiest problems with child relocation following divorce. The court will weigh a number of issues before deciding whether to grant a parent's request to move with a child. These considerations encompass the child's health—emotional, psychological, and physical—in addition to their interactions with other family members, including their siblings and parents. The relocation distance as well as the child's prospects for social and academic growth in the new community, will be taken into account by the court. The decision will also take into account any past neglect or abuse by one parent or the other.

How Will The Relocation Effect The Non-Custodial Parent’s Relationship

The effect of the transfer on the child's relationship with the non-custodial parent is another problem that comes up during a child’s relocation. The non-custodial parent may find it challenging to develop a deep bond with the child if one parent moves away with the child. Bitterness and resentment may result from this, which can make the already difficult co-parenting process much more difficult. Judges have the discretion to consider this possible negative effect and reject a relocation request on this basis.

The Financial Implications of Child Relocation During Divorce

The financial implications of the relocation present a third problem. The cost of relocating, moving into a new home, possibly getting hired at a different place of work, as well as the financial implications of traveling for parenting time changes, can be high when parents are moving with a child. 

Contact a Naperville Divorce Attorney

Contact our Naperville divorce attorney at Law Office of Ronald L. Hendrix, P.C. for help arranging the best outcome for your children during this trying time if you are going through a divorce and concerned about child issues. Call 630-355-7776 for a no-cost consultation.

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=2497&ChapterID=59