Parental Relocation Lawyers in Novi, MI

Oakland County Attorneys for Change of Domicile Proceedings

Thanks largely to advances in technology, today's world is more connected than ever. As a result, it has never been easier to find career and educational opportunities far from home. If you are a divorced or unmarried parent, however, moving to a new city, state, or country following a divorce will likely have a significant impact on your child. At Elkouri Heath PLC, we recognize the appeal of seeking new opportunities. Our attorneys also realize the importance of maintaining healthy parent-child relationships. We have the knowledge and skill to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your child.

Protecting Parental Rights in Canton MI

Michigan law provides that a parent who is subject to a joint child custody arrangement may not move more than 100 miles from his or her current home without the consent of the other parent or the approval of the court. In such situations, a move that exceeds 100 miles is known as a "change of domicile." If both parents agree to the move, it may proceed. If the non-moving parent does not give his or her consent, the parent who wishes to relocate may petition the court for approval.

According to Michigan law, the court must consider five specific factors in deciding whether to permit a parent's change of domicile:

• Whether the change will improve the quality of life for both the child and the moving parent;
• Each parent's compliance with and utilization of allotted parenting time and the motivation for the intended move;
• The degree to which reasonable parenting time for the non-moving parent can be preserved so he or she can maintain a healthy relationship with the child;
• The motivation of the opposing parent for contesting the move; and
• Any instances of domestic violence, not limited to acts directed toward or witnessed by the child.

The law provides that the motivations of each parent are important elements during change of domicile proceedings. A court is less likely to approve a move requested by a parent if it becomes clear that he or she is trying to prevent the child from spending time with the other parent out of spite.

Wayne County Child Custody Lawyers

Attorneys Susan Elkouri and Symantha Heath have been representing both mothers and fathers in all types of child custody proceedings for more than 20 years. We are proud to help parents seek new opportunities when appropriate, but we also recognize the importance of protecting parental rights. If your former spouse has filed a petition for a change of domicile and you are worried about how you will maintain a strong relationship with your child, we can help. Based on your unique circumstances, we are prepared to show the court that a relocation would compromise your rights as a parent and place your parent-child relationship in jeopardy.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Child custody cases can be complex and may place tremendous strain on your family. If you have questions about relocations or changes of domicile, contact our office. Call 248-344-9700 for a free, no-obligation consultation at Elkouri Heath PLC today. We are proud to represent clients in Novi, Farmington Hills, Canton, Macomb, Northville, Livingston, Livonia, Washtenaw, Wayne County, and Oakland County.