How to Relocate with Children After a California Divorce
Thinking about moving with your child after a divorce in California? It is not as simple as packing your bags. If there is an existing custody order, you will generally need the court’s approval before relocating. The court’s primary focus is on the child’s welfare, and judges decide relocation requests based on what is in the child’s best interest.
What the Court Looks At
When evaluating a relocation request, the court will consider factors that show how the move will affect the child. Key considerations include:
- Impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent — Will the move make visitation and regular contact difficult?
- Benefits for the child — Does the move improve the child’s education, access to family support, stability, or quality of life?
- Plans to maintain contact — Are there concrete arrangements for regular communication and meaningful visits with the other parent?
How to Build a Strong Relocation Plan
To increase the chances the court will approve your move, prepare a detailed, practical plan that centers on the child. Focus on demonstrating real benefits and how you will preserve the relationship with the other parent.
Show the Benefits for Your Child
- Educational opportunities — new schools, programs, or specialized services that better meet your child’s needs.
- Employment and stability — a new job or support network that provides financial stability and a consistent home environment.
- Family and community support — extended family nearby, child care options, stable housing, and community resources that help your child thrive.
Propose a Detailed Contact Plan
Courts want to see a realistic plan that maintains meaningful contact with the other parent. A strong plan often includes:
- Regular video calls or phone calls at specific times
- Updated visitation schedules that outline weekends, holidays, and school breaks
- Longer summer visits or extended holiday stays to provide substantial in-person time
- Travel arrangements and responsibilities spelled out, including who pays for travel and how exchanges will occur
Real Example: Los Angeles to Northern California
Here is an example of a successful relocation. A parent needed to move from Los Angeles to Northern California for work. We filed the correct request, showed how the move benefited the child, and proposed updated visitation that included regular video calls and longer summer visits. The court approved the relocation and updated the custody and visitation orders to reflect the new arrangement.
This example highlights the importance of preparation. A well documented case that shows the move is in the child’s best interest and includes a clear plan for maintaining contact gives a judge confidence to approve the relocation.
How We Can Help
At Divorce661 we guide parents through relocation and custody changes. Our services include:
- Filing the necessary court requests for relocation
- Updating custody and visitation agreements to reflect the new situation
- Preparing court paperwork and presenting a strong plan focused on the child’s best interest
We make sure your move is legally sound and centered on your child’s welfare.
Step by Step Checklist
- Review your existing custody order to see if court approval is required
- Document the benefits of the move for your child including school, work, and family support
- Create a detailed contact plan with schedules for calls, visits, and holiday arrangements
- Prepare travel logistics and financial arrangements for exchanges
- File the relocation request and supporting documents with the court
- Be ready to explain how the move serves the child’s best interest at any hearing
Ready to Start Your Relocation?
If you are considering relocating with your child, you do not have to figure it out alone. Visit divorce661.com to schedule a free consultation. We will review your situation, help update custody agreements, and prepare the paperwork so your move is smooth, legal, and focused on what matters most — your child.