Legal Question in Family Law in Georgia
Ex-spouse moving out of state with children
My ex-spouse is talking about moving out of state just because he does not like living in Georgia. He has a good job here and has been interviewing with other companies.One of the places he has talked about moving to is MA. This state and area are too expensive for me to live there. He has primary legal custody, but we have joint legal cusotdy. Unfortunately I did not have my own lawyer and the decree states if we can't agree he has final say. Is there anything I can do?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Ex-spouse moving out of state with children
If the decree states that he has final say, than that will be the case unless you move to modify the order. Whether this will be granted or not is hard to say. Ordinarily, courts won't change an order unless there has been a change in circumstances. However, the test is always what is in the best interests of the child. So, if you can convince the court that it is in your child's best interest to stay here, than you can likely modify the order.
If you would like to discuss any issues further, please feel free to contact my office. My contact information is below. Thank you.
Glenn M. Lyon, Esq
MacGregor Lyon, LLC
Promenade II
1230 Peachtree Street NE
Suite 1900
Atlanta Georgia 30309
Phone 404.942.3545
Fax 404.795.0993
www.macgregorlyon.com
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Re: Ex-spouse moving out of state with children
The law in GA used to be that a move outside the state was not grounds for modifying custody. The case law recently changed so the court, in circumstances such as yours, must look to the best interest of the child. Several factors would be considered when determining whether or not it was in the best interest of your child to be removed outside the state from his mother, or to be removed from the primary custody of the father.
Whether or not you decide to modify the divorce decree by changing custody, you would have a good chance to modify visitation and possibly the amount of child support you are providing.
I would suggest you speak with an attorney who practices in the area of family law to further discuss the law and your options.
Tahira Piraino
Northlake Commons
404/248-0203
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Re: Ex-spouse moving out of state with children
I agree with the previous posters as to the procedure. Please feel free to call me for further consultation.