Child custody can be a complicated legal matter in Pennsylvania because it’s meant to guard the best interests of the child. When it comes to relocating with a child, there are laws in Pennsylvania that talk about the kind of notice and supporting information that the adult involved should give.
What notice do you need to relocate with a child?
A child may relocate with an adult if there’s consent from both parents assuming that both of them have legal custody. If there is no consent from the parent of a child who has legal child custody, then it would have to go through a court process for approval. This is usually reserved for situations where someone wants permission to move with the child without consent from the custodial parent.
What information should accompany the notice of proposed relocation?
Firstly, the notice should include the address of the new residence. It should also include the contact information of the child’s new school, the new home’s mailing address as well as the telephone number. Among other important details, it’s a good idea to have the date of the proposed relocation as well as reasons for the child’s move.
The non-relocating party will have a chance to object to the child moving if there is no written consent from them. When this happens, a court can decide on whether it’s in the child’s best interest to relocate with someone else.
When do you need to provide notice?
Remember that if you are planning on relocating out of state with the child, then you have to give at least 60 days’ notice before doing so. The same applies if you will be moving within Pennsylvania. If you fail to provide the required notice, the person entitled to receive the notice may file a petition asking the child’s court to stop you from moving.
There are many reasons you may want to relocate with a child. Whether or not you have full custody, it is important to know the applicable laws when doing so and give a notice to prevent any issues down the road.