This is the next post in our series on the handling of cases in which a parent wishes to relocate their child outside of Arkansas. Our last article discussed the need for discovery in child move away cases. Discovery is the process by which information is obtained for litigation purposes. If you fail to retain such evidence then you may be without needed information at trial. This can hurt your chances as the case goes forward. Retaining an attorney who is experienced with the discovery process can, conversely, improve those chances. In this article we will discuss an important topic – how parents should conduct themselves after one has been allowed to move away with the child. If you are in need of assistance then contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
It is understandable that the parent, who remains behind, will be upset after a move away has been granted. It is crucial, however, that the remaining parent be civil with their counterpart and that they do their best to make the matter as positive as possible for the child. When having telephone contact with the child, the remaining parent should never demean their counterpart or discuss the litigation. Also, when enjoying visitation with the child, the remaining parent should share as much information with their counterpart as possible. Such information may involve the child’s activities, medical visits, etc. It is crucial to remember that arguing with the other parent can possibly lead to a reduction in visitation.
The parent who is moving away must take their court-ordered obligations seriously. When the relocation is granted, the Judge will typically put strict requirements in place regarding visitation and other times at which the remaining parent is to have contact with the child. This additional contact may involve weekly telephone contact, video chats, and more. Also, it is important that information be shared with the remaining parent. This information will include report cards, other school records, photos of the child, updates regarding medical care, etc. Restricting the remaining parent’s access to information, or restricting their visitation, can possibly result in grounds for the Court to change custody back to the other parent.
If you are moving out of state then contact our office today to speak with a Little Rock child relocation lawyer. We understand the serious nature of such cases and we will take your case seriously. We also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff and throughout the rest of Arkansas.