Perhaps you have an exciting opportunity for a new job, but it involves moving across the state.
You have custody of your nine-year-old twin daughters who would make the move with you. What are the Florida requirements? Do you need to petition the court for permission to relocate?
Relocating by agreement
If you plan to move more than 50 miles away with your daughters, you must have the approval of the other parent in writing. If the other parent does agree, you will not need to petition the court. The agreement must show that you and the non-custodial parent consent to the relocation. You must also include a time-sharing schedule and transportation arrangements for visitation with the twins.
Filing a petition
If there is no agreement on the proposed move, you can file a petition for relocation with your children, which will then be served to the other parent. The petition must include certain information:
- Physical address of the new residence including state and city
- Mailing address if different than the physical address
- New home phone number
- Proposed relocation date
- Statement about reasons for relocating including backup such as a copy of the written job offer
- Proposed transportation arrangements following the move
You can rely on your attorney to assist with the preparation of a petition.
Responding to the petition
The other parent must respond in writing within 20 days of receiving the petition. If the other parent fails to respond in a timely manner, the court will allow relocation without further notice unless the proposed move is not in the best interests of the children. The relocating parent must continue to provide the court with updated information concerning the move whenever it becomes known.
