How Relocation Works with Texas Custody Orders

For When Life Changes Course

Life’s circumstances may someday dictate a move to another city or state. As exciting as that can be, you may want to take your child with you but have a custody agreement in place. How does this work with a conservatorship agreement? Here is what you should keep in mind.

What Relocation Is

Relocation refers to instances when a custodial parent wishes to take their child with them in some sort of move, whether it be in another city, county, or state. Many Texas conservatorship orders will have some sort of relocation provision in place that can restrict a parent from moving the child beyond a certain geographic area. However, a custodial parent is allowed to seek permission to move beyond this region.

It is important to note that relocation requires some sort of permission regardless of the new planned location, as a move could impact the relationship between the other parent and the child.

Seeking Relocation

One way to make a relocation request work is to come to an agreement with the other parent. While successfully getting such an agreement is no guarantee, if you and your ex-spouse are able to agree on the move, then there still may be issues to address with the court before final approval is granted. Your attorney can advise you on how to present information related to adjusted child support and visitation and how a new parenting plan would look when speaking in court.

If, however, you and the other parent are unable to come to a solution, then court intervention may be necessary. The other parent may contest the move, arguing that the move is not in the child’s best interest, or have other reasons related to the child’s wellbeing. If so, then consult with your attorney on how to move forward in court.

Best Interest of the Child

Keep in mind that the court will grant approval of a relocation request should they find that such a move is in the best interest of the child. This provision is key in Texas custody cases.

Consult a Texas Custody Attorney

Your conservatorship battles may be difficult, especially if you are trying to relocate, but know that you are not alone. At Verner Brumley Mueller Parker, we know how important your children are to you, which is why we aim at achieving the best possible outcome for both you and your children.

To speak with a member of our team, call our office at (214) 225-6766 or visit us online.