RELOCATION OF YOUR RESIDENCE: WHAT DOES IT MEAN IF YOU NEED TO MOVE OUT OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI (OR WITHIN THE STATE) AND ARE A CUSTODIAL PARENT

The unstable and unpredictable job market in Missouri often makes it necessary for a person to move to another state to pursue employment.  This can be particularly troubling if that person is a divorced parent.

Missouri (as well as most other states) has somewhat restrictive requirements when it comes to relocating your residence if you and your former spouse share custody of children.  First there is a notice requirement, in which you need to inform the other parent of your proposed move, in writing, at least 60 days prior to the move.  Some very specific information is required in this notice.

After the notice is sent, the other parent may consent to the move, which can then proceed, often with some changes in visitation schedules or transportation of the children.

But what happens if your former spouse objects to the move? Then it is up to the court to decide whether the proposed relocation will be in your children’s best interests.

Judges have told me that they dread these types of cases because they often have to choose between two good parents and one will clearly come out the loser in the end.

In addition to moving for employment, parents often need to relocate to remarry, or to be closer to family, or even to be in a better school district for the children.   In this mobile society, relocation is common but by no means easy if you have children in common with someone.

If you find yourself in a relocation situation, on either side, you need to have experienced representation as early in the process as possible.  Call Barbara Graham at 314-725-7600 or email at barb@BLG-Law.com