One issue that divorced parents sometimes run into is that one parent wants to relocate and the other does not. They share custody. This means that the parent who is going to move either has to bring the children with them, potentially making it impossible for their ex to see them, or they have to move alone, making it harder for them to see the kids 100% of the time.
These cases are complex and have been referred to as some of the most difficult ones for the courts to sort out. They know that it’s best for the children to stay involved with both parents, but does that mean neither parent can move at all until the children turn 18 years of age?
Exploring additional options for visitation
If you’re in this position, you may want to consider other options, such as virtual visitation. Essentially, you just use computer apps like Google Meet, Zoom or FaceTime to talk to the kids remotely. This can help you see the children more and stay involved in their lives, even if you’re not physically near them.
This can be used in more than just relocation cases. Maybe you have to travel a lot for work. When you’re in town, you see the children every few days. During the times when you’re gone, you just make sure to touch base virtually. It’s not necessarily a replacement for actual time together, but it can make things easier and less stressful for the kids — which is your overall goal.
Considering your custody options when life is complicated
There are simply times when life gets more complicated than you’d like. At times like these, you need to know what custody options and visitation rights you have to keep things moving smoothly.