Attorneys for Post Divorce Relocation in Naperville, IL

DuPage County Parenting Agreement Modification Lawyers

Legal matters concerning children frequently become heated and intensely personal, as parents may have trouble remaining focused on their children’s best interests. Such is often the case when one parent wishes to move with his or her child to a new town or state. At J. Aldrich Law, P.C., we understand and respect the stakes involved in family law concerns, including relocation cases. Our skilled attorneys are prepared to provide the guidance you need at every stage of the legal process.

Protecting Parental Rights in Glen Ellyn, Addison, Downers Grove and Surrounding Areas

It is not uncommon for a person to seek a new start following a divorce or other significant life change. When that person has a child, however, and is subject to a court-approved parenting plan, the law in Illinois provides limitations regarding how far he or she may move.

According to the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA), a parent who has been granted primary residential responsibilities or the majority of the parenting time for his or her child must seek the other parent’s approval for:

• A move of more than 25 miles from a current home in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, or McHenry County to a new home anywhere in Illinois;
• A move of more than 50 miles from a current home in any other Illinois county to a new home anywhere in Illinois; or
• A move of more than 25 miles from a current home anywhere in Illinois to a new home in another state.

The experienced attorneys at our firm can help you review your plans to relocate and determine the best course of action for you and your children.

Your Child’s Best Interests

If the other parent is agreeable to your proposed relocation, we can help you draft an amended parenting plan for approval by the court. If the other parent does not give consent, your only option is to ask the court to override his or her refusal. To be successful, you will need to show that your intended move will serve your child’s best interests. In making a decision, the court will consider a number of factors, including:

• Your reasons for wanting to move and the other parent’s reasons for objecting;
• Each parent’s relationship with the child;
• Opportunities for the child at the proposed new location;
• The presence of extended family at your current location and the proposed new location;
• The wishes of the child, based on his or her maturity and ability to understand the situation; and
• Your willingness to foster a continued relationship between your child and the other parent, as appropriate.

Work With an Experienced Family Lawyer

At J. Aldrich Law, P.C., we can help parents looking for a fresh start in a new city or state. We also represent parents looking to prevent a relocation in order to protect their parental rights. If you are involved in proceedings related to relocations, parenting time, or any other element of parental responsibilities, contact our office. Call 630-953-3000 for a free consultation today. Our firm represents clients in Naperville, Glendale Heights, Addison, Villa Park, Downers Grove, Will County, Cook County, and DuPage County.