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International And Domestic Relocation Attorneys In Boca Raton

Last updated on August 26, 2025

For divorced or separated parents, one parent’s desire to move to another state or country – or even somewhere else in Florida – can have a significant impact on both parents’ child custody and time-sharing rights. In some cases, receiving permission to move can be very challenging, as courts almost always try to avoid disrupting a child’s living situation.

At Weiner & Weiss, LLC, we have experience representing parents who wish to relocate, as well as parents seeking to stop their ex-partner from moving with their child. Florida law emphasizes the best interests of the child in these situations, so if the argument for a move is compelling and supported by evidence, then it has a chance to succeed. We help you make your case, no matter what side you are on.

Domestic Relocation

Florida’s parental relocation statute significantly restricts the right of a parent to move away from the parent with whom the child spends less time. The law defines relocation as moving 50 miles or more from the residence of the other parent, even within the state of Florida. The parent who wants to move must file and serve a written notice upon the other parent, which includes the following information:

  • A description of the neighborhood and area
  • The address and phone number of the intended new residence
  • The date of the intended move or proposed relocation
  • The reasons for relocation (if one reason is based upon a written job offer, the offer must be attached)
  • A proposed time-sharing schedule and transportation arrangements

Proving that relocation should be granted is often difficult, especially if the other parent has been active in his or her child’s life. However, receiving permission to move is more likely if an agreeable substitute parenting plan, including contributions toward transportation costs of the other parent, is provided.

International Relocation

Parents who want to relocate internationally generally come under more scrutiny from courts than parents making domestic moves, as judges take into account reasons for the move, distance and conditions in the destination country. International laws regarding child custody must also be considered when one parent wants to move to another country with a child, either after divorce or at the time of separation.

For example, the Hague Convention, which governs nearly all European countries, provides for the immediate return of children who are taken from their country of habitual residence in violation of custody rights. The Hague Convention also ensures that relocation and custody questions are decided in the state or country where the child has been living.

At Weiner & Weiss, LLC, our attorneys help mothers and fathers enforce their time-sharing rights across national and international borders. We understand the nuances involved in enforcing custody rights in Florida, the United States and around the world.

How Do You Handle Unauthorized Moves?

Of all the questions we get asked about our work, the next step in an unauthorized relocation is one of the most urgent. The court will likely order the child to be immediately returned to the state, along with additional custody penalties for the parent who attempted to leave. If the relocation or move happens quickly, it may lead to parental kidnapping charges and criminal penalties.

However, you need to talk to us about the situation before making any move yourself. We will help you move forward with the steps you need to fight for the outcome you deserve.

Contact Weiner & Weiss, LLC About Relocation And Custody Issues In Florida

If you need help with a relocation issue during or after divorce or separation, please contact us by email or phone at 561-935-5529 to schedule a consultation. We serve clients in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Hollywood, and throughout Broward and Palm Beach counties in southeast Florida.