Relocation in Florida

Relocation is defined by statute as a change in the location of the principal resident of a parent or other person from his or her principal place of residence at the time of the last order establishing or modifying time sharing, or at the time of filing the pending action to establish or modify time sharing.

Relocation with a minor child in the state of Florida can be very complex without the assistance of an attorney. There are some technical requirements that need to be followed very carefully in order to avoid the denial of the petition. And, unless there is an agreement between the parties which strictly adheres to the requirements of the statute, a petition must be filed and served upon the other parent or any other person entitled to access and time-sharing with the child. If a parent relocates with a minor child without complying with the strict rules of the statute, the party relocating may be subject to contempt and other proceedings that may result in the child being returned. The removal of a child without the proper consent can be taken into account in the determination of whether or not relocation is in the best interest of the minor child. So it is very important to consult with an attorney when contemplating relocation.