Handling the divorce process in Florida when there are children involved is already a difficult task. But when you also have to deal with the issue of relocation, things can become even more complicated. Thankfully, there are things you can do to make the process easier for everyone involved.
Communicate with your ex
If you’re planning on relocating, it’s important to communicate with your ex well in advance. This way, they can have time to process the news and figure out what they want to do. You should also be open to discussing different relocation scenarios, such as moving closer to family or changing schools.
Consider your children’s needs
Your children definitely shouldn’t be an afterthought in this process. Take their needs into account when making your relocation plans. For example, if they’re attached to their current school or have a strong social life, you might want to consider staying put. Also, if they’re young, they may not be able to handle a long-distance move.
Modify your custody agreement
If you have joint custody of your children, you’ll need to modify your agreement before relocating. This document should outline the new visitation schedule as well as how holidays and special occasions will get handled. Once everything gets finalized, be sure to get it in writing so there’s no confusion down the road.
Be prepared for a fight
Unfortunately, relocating with children after divorce can often turn into a heated legal battle. If your ex is opposed to the move, they may try to use the children as leverage. They might even file for full custody in an attempt to keep you from moving away.
If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to have a solid game plan, which means being prepared to present your case in court. Therefore, gather any relevant evidence, such as job offers or school records, and make sure you have solid reasoning for why the move is in your children’s best interests.
Generally, relocating with children after divorce is a complicated process. But by communicating with your ex, considering your children’s needs and being prepared for a legal battle, you can make it through to the other side.