Relocation Case

A family court relocation case arises when a parent seeks to move with a child in a way that would substantially interfere with the other parent’s custody or parenting time. In New York, the court determines whether the proposed move is in the child’s best interests by considering factors such as the parent’s reason for relocating, the impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent, and the educational, financial, and emotional benefits of the move.

The court also evaluates whether a realistic parenting schedule can preserve a meaningful relationship between the child and the nonrelocating parent. Neither parent’s interests automatically control, and the parent requesting relocation generally bears the burden of demonstrating that the move serves the child’s best interests.