Protecting Children and Families Through Empathy, Expertise, and Evidence-Based Advocacy

A move-away request arises when one parent seeks to relocate a child’s primary residence, whether within California, out of state, or internationally, over the objection of the other parent. These cases are rarely simple and never purely logistical. California courts evaluate relocation requests under the best interests of the child, weighing factors that include:

• • • • Stability and continuity in the child’s life
      • Existing custody and parenting arrangements
      • The child’s relationship with each parent
      • Educational, medical, and emotional needs
      • The developmental impact of relocation
      • The feasibility of maintaining meaningful relationships post-move

A Trauma-Informed Approach to Relocation

Move-away disputes can quickly escalate into adversarial conflict that places children in the middle. Our litigation strategy is intentionally designed to reduce harm, de-escalate unnecessary conflict, and present courts with clear, psychology-informed, evidence-based arguments centered on the child’s wellbeing. Relocating a child after separation or divorce requires careful consideration of developmental and emotional realities, including:

• • • • Attachment: Moves can disrupt essential bonds with parents, siblings, extended family, and caregivers. Secure attachment is foundational to resilience and emotional development.
      • Safety and Emotional Stability: Poorly managed transitions may create anxiety, uncertainty, or a sense of loss that undermines a child’s feeling of safety.
      • Access to Supportive Environments: Schools, medical providers, therapists, neighborhoods, and peer networks are central to daily stability. Disruption can affect academic progress, health, and social development.
      • Developmental Continuity: Each stage of childhood presents unique needs. Moves during sensitive periods may impact learning, self-esteem, and adaptability if not handled thoughtfully.
      • Family Support Systems: Distance from trusted adults and routines requires a strategic plan to preserve meaningful connections and consistency..

When Our Legal Guidance Is Critical

You may benefit from legal counsel if:

• • • • You are considering relocating with your child
      • The other parent is threatening or opposing a move
      • A career opportunity, remarriage, or family support necessitates relocation
      • International travel or residence is involved
      • The existing custody arrangement no longer reflects the child’s needs
      • Early, strategic guidance often shapes the outcome of move-away cases.

Begin with Confidence

Clients trust our firm because we:

• • • • Anticipate psychological and behavioral dynamics that influence litigation outcomes
      • Craft relocation proposals courts view as measured, credible, and child-focused
      • Navigate high-conflict co-parenting with strategic calm and restraint
      • Protect children from loyalty conflicts and emotional triangulation
      • Maintain discretion for families with heightened privacy and reputational concerns

Move away cases determine far more than geography; they shape a child’s relationships, routines, education, and long-term sense of security. Our firm approaches move-away cases with a comprehensive understanding of both the legal standards and the psychological dimensions courts increasingly recognize as critical to child stability. 

To schedule a confidential consultation, contact our office today.