In Ohio, a parent cannot relocate with a child without following specific legal steps. These steps are designed to protect the child’s well-being and ensure both parents remain involved in the child’s life.
Below are some crucial points to remember.
Notice requirements
Under Ohio law, if a parent with physical custody plans to move to a new residence, they must file a notice of intent to relocate with the court that issued the original custody order. This applies to moves both within and outside the state. The court will then notify the other parent, who can object to the move. If an objection is raised, the court may request a hearing to determine whether the relocation is in the child’s best interest.
Factors considered
When evaluating a proposed relocation, Ohio courts consider several factors to determine if the move serves the child’s best interests. These include:
- The child’s relationship with their parents
- The impact of the move on the child’s education and social life
- The reasons for the proposed relocation
- The distance between the current and proposed residences
- Each parent’s ability to facilitate parenting time
If a parent relocates with a child without following the proper legal procedures, they may be found in contempt of court. Consequences can include being ordered to return the child to the original jurisdiction, modifications to the custody arrangement or other legal penalties.
While a parent may seek to relocate with their child, they must follow Ohio’s legal requirements to ensure the move is lawful and in the child’s best interest. For more information on your parental rights, legal guidance can help.