Divorce is considered the second most stressful life event that can occur. It’s second only to the death of a spouse and, when considering other high-stress events such as moving and significant financial changes, it can quickly feel overwhelming.
No one gets married to get a divorce, but divorce is more common than you might think. Over 20 percent of marriages end in divorce within the first five-year period, and nearly half of marriages end in divorce within 20 years.
After filing for a divorce, you may need to move out of your marital home. Deciding where to move after a divorce can be challenging for some, especially where children are involved. But relocating after a divorce can bring new opportunities and a more fulfilling life.
4 Considerations When Deciding Where to Move After a Divorce
Are you trying to decide where to move after a divorce? Here are four key things you should consider before you move.
1. Choosing the Right Location for You
You may choose a location that provides new personal or career opportunities that can lead you to a more fulfilling life. Or, if you have children, you may want to consider a location that will be best for your child. If you are not the custodial parent, you may want to live closer to your child to help with visitations.
2. Make Sure That You Are Complying With Divorce and Custody Agreements
If you and your ex-spouse have children, you must comply with any divorce and custody agreements that you have. When deciding where to move after a divorce, you must always adhere to these agreements. If necessary, request modifications to those agreements or a relocation hearing. You could face legal consequences if you break your custody or divorce agreements.
3. Preparing for a Relocation Hearing
If you have custody of your children, you may have extra steps to take before you decide where to move after a divorce. Some state laws require you to inform your ex-spouse about any move. These laws may require you to notify your former spouse verbally or in writing. If the move is long-distance or across state lines, your former spouse may be able to object since the move will impact their relationship with your children.
Because a move can affect visitation rights and child custody, you may be required to attend a relocation hearing before you can legally move with your child outside of a geographical area. The hearing helps to determine whether or not the move will serve your child’s best interest and can ultimately cause modifications in your custody agreement.
4. Modification of Existing Custody Agreements
If you have custody of your children, filing to modify your existing custody agreement may be necessary before you can complete a move. However, non-custodial parents can also request changes of custody agreements to prevent the custodial parent from moving out of state with the children. Knowing your rights about custody agreements will help you know what to expect when moving to a new home after filing for divorce.
Speaking With an Experienced Divorce Attorney
Life after filing for divorce can be a challenging time, especially if you will be moving to a new place during or after your divorce proceedings. When deciding where to move after a divorce, you must comply with any divorce or custody agreements you have and request any necessary changes. We can help you navigate this difficult time in your life and help you file any appropriate changes to your divorce or custody agreement. Are you trying to decide where to move after a divorce? Call us today at 360-866-7393 or schedule a consultation online.
