Our Massachusetts practice has more than 25 years of experience handling interstate removals. We understand the balance between parental relocations and maintaining reasonable parenting plans and quality time with each parent. We have represented parents seeking interstate removals, and non-custodial parents pursuing a counterclaim for physical custody. We can evaluate your child custody situation to provide effective legal guidance.
We understand that not every out-of-state relocation affects visitation/parenting time. The North Shore and surrounding communities are mostly reachable via short commutes. Moving to a city that borders New Hampshire or Rhode Island technically involves crossing state lines. But such a move would only take children a couple of miles away from the non-custodial parent.
Although a parent’s relationship with the children may not be affected by an interstate removal, future visitation/parenting time could change. A short move today could transpire into a relocation further away from the non-custodial parent. It is important to consider short-term and long-term consequences of these moves with our attorney.
Oftentimes, finding a middle ground can benefit not only both parents, but also the children. It is important to figure out the facts of a complaint for removal. If you and your ex-spouse can draft a reasonable, amicable plan, the courts likely will grant the agreement. We can work closely with you and your ex-spouse’s lawyer to draft an agreement that makes concessions for each parent.
The agreement can outline monetary or visitation/parenting time adjustments in exchange for agreeing to the interstate removal. Concessions for the custodial parent can include:
Reduced child support due to travel/visitation/parenting time costs
Exchange summer vacation or long weekend visitation/parenting time
Split holiday visitation/parenting time schedule
These and other concessions can help minimize the impact of the move on all parties. However, if you are not able to reach a compromise, we can take your case to trial.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation to discuss your complex interstate removal situation. We are available by phone, or you may contact our family law office online.
Since founding the practice on January 4, 1999, Monique has dedicated her career to family law, providing clients with compassionate yet practical guidance through some of life’s most challenging moments. With over two decades of experience, she understands the complexities and emotional toll of family law cases and focuses on achieving resolutions while minimizing unnecessary conflict. [ ATTORNEY BIO ]