Factors to Consider in Child Relocation
Factors to Consider When Deciding the Relocation of a Child
Having two parents who not only live in the same state but within a reasonable driving distance between each is ideal, though this might not always be possible. In some cases, a move out of the country as a result of career, family, or remarriage is necessary. When the time comes for separation between parents for whatever reason, justifying why a move is in a minor child, custody becomes the focal point of any contested hearing.
In deciding on child custody, a court will consider many factors to determine which parent should have the primary care of the child. However, two main factors are highly acknowledged by the court when deciding child custody. They are:
- General needs of the child
- Child’s adjustment to school, religion, and home
Below are specific factors to consider in child relocation:
1. Child’s Special Needs
A court will evaluate a child’s needs when determining who will get child custody. A court gives more weight to the child’s individual needs while making decisions on child custody. Some of the requirements that are considered include:
- Child’s medical needs
- Child’s special apparatus in the home
- Child’s schooling needs
- Child’s need for specialized transport
2. Age and the of the child
In consideration of special needs, a court will also take note of the child’s age. This is because children of different ages have varying needs. In determining the best-suited parent to take the child custody, a court will probably consider the age of a child in different age groups, such as:
- Teenagers
- School-aged children
- Infants and toddlers
A court will likely weigh the age of the child, as specific age groups are involved in different extracurricular activities that are paramount for their growth and future endeavors. Some courts may not consider the child’s age as a factor in determining child custody.
3. Medical Needs
It is possible to find a child requiring special medical needs that requires extra medical expenses. In such a situation, a court gives the child custody to the parent who is best apt to handle these medical needs. In determining the child’s special needs, the court will work out with the following:
- Frequency, the child, visits the doctor
- Child’s ability to handle his or her medical condition without the assistant of the parent
- Child’s medical needs that should be cared for regularly
- Cost of health treatment
4. Child’s visitation Schedule
While determining the credibility of a place that will accelerate the child’s adjustment, attachment, and accommodation child’s need, a court will propose a visitation schedule. Appropriate visitation time may be during school holidays, weekends, or summer vacations.
5. Child’s friends
In most cases, a court will consider the relationship and circles the child had already formed. As children grow, the value of friendship also increases. So, taking into account child interests, a court may consider the child custody in regards to the aspect that allows the child to maintain his/her friends.