Montgomery County Relocation Attorneys
Protecting Parent-Child Relationships in Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Philadelphia Counties
In our growing and transient society, issues of relocation are arising more and more frequently. Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC advocates for the rights of parents seeking to relocate with their children, as well as parents opposing such a move. The parent wishing to move must follow specific procedures to request permission to relocate and, in the event of litigation, must show the court that the move is in the best interest of the children. There are a number of factors the court will consider when determining whether to grant relocation. A knowledgeable attorney, such as those at Shemtob Draganosky Taylor Stein, PC, will be able to help you in navigating these waters. We also assist with the necessary child custody and post-divorce modifications if relocation is approved.
Call (215) 544-3974 or contact our firm online to learn more.
Can I Relocate with My Child in Pennsylvania?
A Pennsylvania parent can relocate with their child only if the parent with custodial rights consents to the relocation or if a judge approves the relocation. In most cases, the relocating parent must provide notice of the proposed relocation to the other parent at least 60 days before the move.
A parent proposing to move with their child must also provide the other parent with important information about the relocation, including:
- the new address and home phone number where the parent will be living;
- the mailing address, if different from the physical address;
- the names and ages of everyone who will be living at the new address;
- the child's new school district and school;
- the proposed relocation date;
- the parent's reasons for relocation;
- a proposed new custody and visitation schedule; and
- any other information relevant to the proposed relocation.
If the nonmoving parent does not respond to the notice of relocation within 30 days, they waive the right to object to the relocation.
Vigorously Representing Clients to Achieve Their Goals
Former Clients Say It Best
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"Highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service"
I appreciated David Draganosky’s informed guidance and willingness to move forward diligently, which set the stage for a favorable resolution. Your firm’s reputation for highly experienced, client-focused and efficient service is well-deserved.
- Former Client -
I was wary about my rights as a father with my children and concerned about having enough time with them during the week and for holidays and breaks from school. Your help in hammering out a very detailed and fair custody agreement was appreciated more tha- Former Client
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Lori Shemtob and her associates were the perfect choice. Lori has the perfect demeanor to defuse any volatile situation.- Former Client
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Cynthia’s practical knowledge of negotiation and the law helped me in a tense situation where my ex-husband did not want me to take the kids with me and then refused to pay any support.- Former Client
Key Factors Considered for Relocation Approval in PA
In relocation cases, the court will try its best to minimize the impact on the noncustodial parent's relationship with the child. Judges will consider the noncustodial parent's interest in playing a role in the child's upbringing and maintaining a relationship.
With that in mind, the court will examine the following factors when determining whether to grant a parent's request for relocation:
- the potential advantages of the proposed move, such as how it will improve the quality of life for the custodial parent and the child;
- the moving parent's motivations;
- the validity of the nonmoving parent's objections to the move; and
- the availability of realistic, substitute visitation for the nonmoving parent.
Be aware that the parent proposing the relocation has the burden of proving why the move will better their and their child’s lives. and they must also show the integrity of their reasons for moving.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-544-3974 today!
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How long has same-sex marriage been legal in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has recognized same-sex marriages since May 2014 when a U.S. federal district court judge ruled that Pennsylvania’s 1996 statutory ban on the recognition of same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. Before then, Pennsylvania prohibited same-sex marriage and refused to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. In June 2015 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that all states must issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples and recognize same-sex marriages validly performed in other jurisdictions. This significant decision legalized same-sex marriage throughout the United States.
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What Should I Do Before Contacting Your Firm?It can help to gather key documents, such as basic financial records and any existing custody paperwork, and to think about your main concerns and goals. You do not need everything perfectly organized. Our role is to help you sort through information and identify next steps during the consultation.
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Are Same-Sex Divorces Treated Differently Under Pennsylvania Law?
Pennsylvania law applies the same divorce and custody standards to same-sex and different-sex spouses. That said, the history of your relationship and parentage can raise unique questions. We pay close attention to those details and advocate for fair treatment of your family within the existing legal framework.
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