Parental Relocation Lawyer in Wheaton

When it comes to child custody and parenting plans, once they are finalized, they are legally binding. If a parent wants to relocate with the child, it may require court approval. Whether you're the parent with primary custody wanting to move, or the non-residential parent opposing the move, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced parental relocation attorney in Wheaton immediately.

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Protect Your Relationship with Your Child

Parental relocation cases are emotionally charged and require careful handling. When you need a lawyer for a parental relocation case, you want someone who can communicate effectively and navigate this complex area of family law. At Hanauer Law in Wheaton, we pride ourselves on our team’s ability to communicate clearly and effectively with clients, combined with our legal expertise. Rob Hanauer, our firm’s founder, personally meets with every client to listen to their concerns and provide straightforward legal advice. We then turn that information into aggressive legal action, fighting for your relationship with your child. Contact us today for an initial consultation to see how we can help you.

State Laws on Parental Relocation in Wheaton, IL

Under Illinois law, relocation may require court permission depending on the distance and location. Relocation is defined by:

Moving more than 25 miles from the child’s primary residence if relocating out of state.
Moving more than 25 miles within Illinois if the child’s residence is in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties.
Moving more than 50 miles within Illinois if the child’s residence is in any other county.

Both Sides of Relocation: How We Can Help

If a parent intends to relocate, they must provide at least 60 days’ notice to the other parent and the clerk of the circuit court. If the other parent agrees, the move is granted. However, if there is no agreement, the parent wishing to relocate must file a petition with the court explaining why the move is in the child's best interests. The experienced attorneys at Hanauer Law have helped clients achieve favorable results in cases involving:

Special circumstances requiring notice of relocation within less than 60 days.
Effective communication of reasons for relocation and its benefits to the child.
Legal action to prevent the other parent from moving and disrupting the child's relationship with both parents.
Responses to objections to a proposed relocation.

What Judges Consider When a Parent Wants to Relocate

Even if the other parent agrees to the move, the court still has to approve it. Family court judges always consider the child’s best interests. The factors the court considers include:

The child’s welfare and how the move will benefit them.
The child's wishes regarding the move.
The reasons behind the move (such as a job offer, reuniting with family, better educational opportunities, or health considerations).
Whether the opposing parent’s objections are legitimate or retaliatory.
The history of parenting time and custody arrangements.
The relationship between the child and both parents.
How a new parenting time arrangement could maintain a strong relationship with the non-moving parent.

Speak with a Parental Relocation Attorney in Wheaton Today

If you are facing a parental relocation issue in Wheaton, don’t hesitate to contact Hanauer Law. We can help you protect your relationship with your child and guide you through the legal process. Schedule a consultation with an experienced parental relocation lawyer in Wheaton today.