In Illinois, it is important for parents to work together to find a solution that is in the best interests of each child. If one parent wants to move but parents are unable to come to an agreement, the court may need to make a decision about a child's relocation. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help navigate these difficult issues and advocate for your preferences for your family’s arrangements.
Determining the Best Interests of the Child
One difficult issue with child relocation after divorce is determining what is in the best interests of the child. When a parent wants to relocate with a child, the court will consider several factors to make this determination. These factors may include the child's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being, as well as the child's relationships with their parents, siblings, and other family members, the distance of the move, and the child's educational and social opportunities at the new location. Any history of abuse or neglect by either parent will also be considered in the decision.
Impact on the Child's Relationship with the Other Parent
Another difficult issue is the impact of the move on the child's relationship with the other parent. If one parent moves away with the child, it can be difficult for the non-custodial parent to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child. This can lead to feelings of resentment and bitterness, which can further complicate the already difficult process of divorce. Judges can consider this potential impact and deny a relocation based on these grounds.
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