What is the law regarding child relocation?

In Virginia, if one parent wishes to relocate with a child, the law requires that parent to provide the other parent with written notice of the move no less than 30 days prior to the relocation. The notice must include the address of the new residence, the date of relocation, a description of the proposed living arrangements, and the reasons for the relocation. If the other parent objects to the proposed relocation, either parent may file a motion with the court. The court may grant the relocation if it is in the best interests of the child, or order the parent who is proposing the relocation to post a bond to secure the payment of any fair and reasonable expenses, including attorney’s fees, incurred by the other parent in responding to the relocation motion. If the court decides not to grant permission, the parent who proposed the relocation must either withdraw the motion or appeal the court’s decision. If the parent who proposed the relocation does not follow the court’s decision, the other parent may seek an order of contempt and request that the court order the police to take the child into custody and return the child to the other parent. The court will consider a variety of factors when determining whether to grant permission for the relocation, such as the ages of the children, the distance of the proposed move, and the amount of time the non-relocating parent would have with the child after the relocation. It is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney to make sure all legal rights are protected.

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What is the law regarding child relocation?

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