Legal Question in Family Law in California
just wondering
my wife has a 7 year old from her first marriage. the child is with us during the week and the father's on weekends. my wife's family lives 4 hours away and owns a house that is vacant. they offered to let us rent extremely cheap. when my wife asked about moving to the child's father, he refused even though it was understood visitation would remain the same. we even offered to pay all travel expenses. both parties were forced to hire attorney's since an agreement could not be made. our attorney's advice was to not pursue any legal action because it is nearly impossible to win that type of case. we were just wondering if we received good legal advice and would like a second opinion. if there is any way we could legally force the move we would appreciate your input.
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: just wondering
While you do not need a move-away order you do need an order to modify the visitation. Also, a move-away without judicial approval could be a change in circumstances that would justify a change of custody. Get a second opinion from an attorney who has handled move-away cases in the county and preferably in front of the judge that will be handling your case. The advice you received may be correct and consider that the attorney who gave you the advice could have made a good fee if he had given you contrary advice. Move-away decisions are very much dependant upon the judge that decides the case. Good Luck, Pat McCrary
Reply: just wondering
In a general sense, if there is no loss of time to the non-custodial parent, it would be difficult if not impossible to show detriment to the parent-child relationship.
For a specific opinion regarding your individual circumstances, I suggest that you consult with an experienced family law lawyer. Experience is not expensive, it's priceless!
You will find some valuable information on various California family law issues by visiting my web site.
Good luck to you!
Brian Levy, Esq.
www.calattorney.com
Re: just wondering
A second opinion is usually helpful, so we commend you for NOT giving up that easily in respect to your move. Typically the family law court, as well as the U.S. Constitution, provides for freedom of travel and moving anywhere you want in the U.S. period. However, this freedom must also be balanced with the child's and the parent's overall best interests. In your case, it seems HIGHLY unlikely that the court would prevent your move, especially if the new home improves the quality of your child's life and it is not an unreasonable hardship on the other parent's visitation/custody rights. Therefore you should DEFINNITELY fight for you and your child's moving rights here, and ASAP. If you would like prompt, affordable legal assistance in this matter, contact us directly today for a free phone consultation. God Bless.
Re: just wondering
If the move is in-state, you do not need a move away order, although the other arent may object. If the move is out of state, you will need a move away order, which is expensive and difficult to get (anyone who tells you otherwise is misleading you), but can be obtained. I would be happy to offer a free telephone consultation and my rates are reasonable.