Westport Relocation Lawyers

Skilled & Proven Representation in Child Relocation Disputes

When a custodial parent wishes to move to a distant location away from the other parent, an already difficult custody dispute can become even more complex and difficult. These emotionally charged matters can have a profound effect on both parents and children. A custodial parent wishing to relocate may have valid reasons that would seemingly enhance the lives of both the parent and the child. But by moving away, the parent who would be left behind is suddenly threatened with a reduced or impossible visitation schedule.

Whether you are the parent wishing to relocate or your ex-spouse, you can turn to a law firm that has set the standard for this issue. At Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin, Attorney Sarah Stark Oldham was instrumental in establishing the important precedent in relocation cases. The case of Ireland v. Ireland led to the adoption of a Connecticut statute to address the specific standards to be applied in a relocation case.

So if you are in the middle of a child custody and relocation issue, turn to our experienced relocation attorneys! We serve clients throughout the following counties:

• Fairfield
• Greenwich
• New Canaan
• Darien
• Stamford
• Weston
• Wilton
• Norwalk

For exceptional advocacy in a relocation dispute, contact Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin online or at (203) 428-4476.

How Relocation Is Determined in Connecticut Courts

When a parent wants to move away, it often results in high conflict and the need for litigation. In this scenario, the potentially moving parent must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that relocating serves the best interests of the child.

How to Win a Relocation Case in Connecticut

The parent wishing to move must prove the following, among other factors, to succeed in their relocation case:

• A legitimate purpose for the relocation. This is commonly based on the offer of a new job, a job/career transfer, remarriage, closer proximity to a new partner, or extended family, or improved educational opportunities.
• The proposal is reasonable in light of the legitimate purpose. This means that the moving parent’s reason for relocating to the particular location is closely related to the purpose of the relocation and cannot be accomplished without relocation or by relocation to a closer locale.
• The relocation is in the best interests of the child. The court will look at many factors that will affect the child, especially the relationship between the child and the non-moving parent.

What the Court Considers in a Relocation Case

Factors that can influence a court’s decision in determining whether the relocation is in the child’s best interest include:

• The reasons behind both parents’ assertions (whether for or against the move);
• The established relationships between each parent and the child;
• How the move will impact the parent-child relationship with the parent left behind;
• To what degree the move may improve the child’s future and well-being in terms of education, financial resources, and emotional stability; and
• Whether satisfactory visitation arrangements can be made that will ensure a continuing relationship between the child and the non-moving parent.

These new arrangements should not penalize the non-moving parent financially. Should the court rule in favor of the relocating parent, a new and modified custody/parenting plan arrangement will probably be ordered.

Relentless Advocacy for Parents

Our Westport relocation lawyers are known for relentless and effective client advocacy in all family law matters, including relocation and custody. We negotiate and litigate to achieve the best possible parenting plans and circumstances for our clients and their children.

If you are looking at a potential dispute, we recommend that you discuss your anticipated case with one of our relocation attorneys as soon as possible.

Call our Westport firm today at (203) 428-4476 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.