What's happening?
Relocation disputes arise when one parent wants to move, with the children, to a location that would significantly affect the other parent's time with them. Overseas travel with children can also require the other parent's consent or a court order, particularly once parenting proceedings are underway.
These matters can be sensitive, as they often involve balancing a parent's personal or work reasons for moving against the children's relationship with the other parent.
What could it mean for me?
- Relocating without agreement or a court order can lead to disputes and possible legal consequences
- Overseas travel with children may require consent from the other parent or the court
- The court considers the impact of a proposed move on the children's relationships and routine
- Passports and travel alerts can be relevant where there are concerns about a child being taken overseas
What are my options?
- Discuss a proposed move or trip with the other parent as early as possible
- Seek written consent for overseas travel
- Negotiate revised parenting arrangements if a relocation is proposed
- Apply to the court if agreement cannot be reached
What happens next?
- Raise the proposed move or travel with the other parent early
- Gather information supporting the reasons for the move or trip
- Attempt to negotiate revised arrangements
- Apply to the court if the matter cannot be resolved by agreement
How can MGE Lawyers help?
MGE Lawyers advises parents considering relocation, as well as parents responding to a proposed move, on the general factors relevant to these disputes.
We also assist with consent arrangements for overseas travel and, where necessary, urgent applications to the court.