Sharing custody usually means that co-parents degree of proximity. They also need to communicate regularly to ensure they meet their children’s needs. They need to share when a child struggles with math or has an upcoming medical appointment with one another to better support the child.
Typically, Maryland parents who share custody exchange their children frequently. This allows the children to spend plenty of time with both parents. It also helps the adults have some time for activities outside of parenting.
Those seeking to improve their lives after a Maryland divorce sometimes decide to relocate. They may have a job offer or family elsewhere. When is that possible for a parent who shares custody to move away with the children?
When the courts or the other parent approves
Depending on the terms that the parents negotiated with one another or received from the courts, they may have to seek pre-approval for a relocation of any distance. The parent hoping to move must provide the other parent and the courts with notice about the possible move 90 days before it occurs. Occasionally, because the move is reasonable or beneficial, the parent remaining in the same location will agree to the move.
Other times, they may dispute its necessity. If a judge must review a relocation case, the most important consideration will be what is in the best interest of the children. The parent has a reasonable motivation for moving and the children will have better support or opportunities, the courts may approve the relocation despite the protest of the other parent. Understanding how Maryland family law deals with relocations when parents share custody may help someone trying to rebuild their life.