Florida Relocation Attorney

Relocation cases in Florida can significantly impact parenting time and a child’s relationship with both parents, requiring careful legal analysis and court approval. At The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C., we represent clients across Florida in seeking or contesting relocation requests involving moves that affect existing parenting plans. Our firm focuses exclusively on family law, allowing us to navigate Florida statutes and best interest factors with precision. Whether you are planning to relocate with your child or opposing a move, we develop strategic, evidence-based arguments to protect your parental rights and your child’s stability while pursuing clear, enforceable outcomes.

Move-Away Cases and Parenting Plan Modifications

Relocation cases are among the most complex and contested matters in Florida family law. When a parent wishes to move more than 50 miles away for 60 consecutive days or more, Florida law requires strict compliance with statutory procedures.

Relocation is governed by Section 61.13001, Florida Statutes, and may significantly impact timesharing, parental responsibility, and child support.

The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. represents parents in relocation and move-away cases throughout Southwest Florida and the greater Tampa Bay region, including but not limited to, Sarasota County, Manatee County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Lee County, Hillsborough County, and Pinellas County. Every consultation is conducted directly with a licensed Divorce and Matrimonial Law Attorney, not a salesperson, not a case manager, and not an intake team.

What Qualifies as Relocation in Florida?

Relocation occurs when a parent seeks to move:

  • More than 50 miles from their current residence
  • For at least 60 consecutive days
  • After a Parenting Plan has been established

 

Temporary absences for education, vacation, or medical care may be excluded.

Filing Requirements

A parent seeking relocation must:

  • File a verified petition to relocate
  • Provide detailed information about the proposed move
  • Include a proposed revised Parenting Plan
  • Serve the other parent

 

Failure to follow proper procedure can result in denial.

Objection to Relocation

The non-relocating parent has 20 days to file a written objection. If objected to, the court will schedule a hearing.

Relocation is not automatically granted.

Best Interests of the Child Standard

Florida courts evaluate statutory factors, including:

  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • The child’s age and developmental needs
  • Impact on education and community ties
  • The relocating parent’s reasons
  • The objecting parent’s reasons
  • Feasibility of preserving the relationship
  • Employment opportunities
  • History of compliance with the Parenting Plan

 

The court balances all factors carefully.

Temporary Relocation Orders

In certain cases, a court may enter a temporary relocation order pending final hearing.

Emergency relocation requests require strong evidentiary support.

Impact on Child Support

Relocation may change:

  • Timesharing calculations
  • Travel expense allocation
  • Child support amounts

 

Financial implications must be addressed in any revised order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a parent move out of state with a child in Florida? Only with court approval or written agreement from the other parent. Is relocation automatically approved if it improves income? No. The child’s best interests remain the primary consideration. What happens if a parent relocates without permission? The court may order the child returned and impose sanctions.

Speak With a Florida Relocation Attorney

Speak With a Florida Relocation Attorney

If you are seeking to relocate with your child or opposing a move-away request, experienced legal representation is essential to protect your parental rights.

Contact The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. to schedule a confidential consultation regarding relocation cases in Florida.

Locations

Address

123 W Main Street, Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60601

Address

1201 6th Ave W STE 100 Unit #677 Bradenton, Florida 34205