Do not plan around assumptions
Before signing a lease, changing schools, or announcing a move, review any existing custody order and discuss the proposed change with qualified counsel. Relocation issues can depend heavily on the current legal arrangement.
Write down the practical reason for the move
Employment, housing, family support, safety, education, or cost of living may all be part of the background. Keep the explanation factual and supported where possible.
Prepare a transportation proposal
Distance changes who drives, how often exchanges occur, and who pays travel costs. A serious proposal should address these details instead of focusing only on the destination.
Consider school and community continuity
Bring information about schools, childcare, healthcare, activities, and the child’s existing community connections. A move affects more than driving time.
Bring alternative schedules
If the current schedule cannot continue, prepare realistic alternatives that preserve meaningful parenting time. That makes the consultation more solution-focused.