Divorce in New Jersey can be a difficult, complex and time-consuming process. This can be amplified when there are children involved. The issue of relocation came up in a divorce proceeding in another state. The mother, who had been granted the majority of parenting time, wanted to relocate the children to another state.
This request was brought before the court. The court will always act in the best interest of the children, who in this case are ages 16, 12 and 11. According to the court’s decision, the mother failed to provide sufficient proof of the need to relocate to another state. Such a decision on the part of a parent is often made for financial reasons, and the court will weigh the benefit of that against the advantage of the children’s remaining in their current schools and remaining geographically close to both parents.
The court ruled that relocation was not in the best interest of the children. Based on the court’s finding, the child custody agreement was modified. The court appointed the father as the residential parent for the sake of the children’s schooling.
The decision to divorce is seldom taken lightly, especially when children are involved. A person in New Jersey who is contemplating a divorce may want to consult with an experienced family law attorney. If there are minor children, a knowledgeable lawyer can review the family’s circumstances and assist in facilitating a custody agreement. Relocation may be desired for economic or other good reasons, and an experienced attorney can advise the client regarding that issue.