Just because two people share a child does not mean they will always live in the same place. New jobs, new relationships and other circumstances can lead estranged or divorced parents to move to new towns or even different states.
The Law Offices of Veronica R. Norgaard, LLC, represents parents who are caught in such transitions. Whether one parent wishes to move out of state with a child or if another parent wishes to prevent a child from being moved, the firm can represent the parents' interests and the interests of the child.
Middlesex County Child Custody Attorney
In New Jersey, the overriding factor in decisions involving children is whether allowing the child to move out of state — through what is known as a removal action — will be in the child's best interest. Courts have wide discretion in deciding what is best for a child; however, they consider several factors in doing so, including:
- The parents' ability to agree, communicate and cooperate in matters relating to the child
- The willingness of each parent to accept custody and any history of unwillingness to allow parenting time not based on substantiated abuse
- The interaction and relationship of the child with his or her parents and siblings
- Any history of domestic violence
- Safety of the child and/or parent from physical abuse by the other parent
- The child's preference
- The stability of the home environment
- The quality and continuity of the child's education
- The fitness of the parents
- The geographical proximity (nearness) of the parents' homes
- The extent and quality of the time spent by the parent with the child before or after separation
- Each parents' employment situation
- The ages and number of children
An Advocate for Parents' Rights | New Jersey Removal Actions Attorney
If a child was born in New Jersey or has lived in the state for five or more years, both parents must agree to allow a child removal. Otherwise, a court must determine the move is in the child's best interest.
Also, if a custodial parent wishes to move out of state, he or she may often do so if the move is in the best interests of the child or if it will not interfere with the visitation rights of the noncustodial parent.
Free Consultation | The Law Offices of Veronica R. Norgaard, LLC
Attorney Veronica Norgaard has assisted numerous New Jersey families in both negotiating and litigating in court matters related to child removal requests. For more information or for a free consultation with a lawyer, contact her online in New Brunswick, New Jersey, or by calling 732-226-7619.
