A proposed move with a minor child can alter an existing Parenting Plan, affect school continuity, and materially change each parent’s access to the child(ren). When the move is contested, a Greenwich relocation lawyer will evaluate the proposed change, the current custody Orders, and the practical effect on your family before positions become fixed.
At Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC, we approach relocation matters with disciplined preparation and discretion. An experienced child custody attorney from our team will assess the applicable legal standard, develop the factual record, and position your case for settlement discussions or Court review.
Pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-56d, the relocating parent bears the burden of proof when a proposed post-judgment move with the child(ren) would significantly affect an existing Parenting Plan. The parent must establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the relocation is for a legitimate purpose. The proposed location must also be reasonable in light of that purpose, and the move must be in the child(ren)’s best interests.
A Greenwich attorney evaluating a proposed relocation should connect these statutory requirements to the specific circumstances that will affect your child(ren). The Court considers each parent’s reasons for supporting or opposing the move, the quality of the child(ren)’s relationship with each parent, and the effect on future contact with the non-relocating parent. The feasibility of preserving that relationship through an appropriate parenting arrangement is a key part of the analysis.
The post-judgment relocation statute does not govern when the relocation issue is decided as part of the initial custody judgment. Connecticut appellate authority recognizes that these cases remain subject to the best-interests standard under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-56.
An attorney addressing relocation during an initial custody proceeding for Greenwich residents should therefore evaluate the proposed move within the broader custody analysis rather than apply the post-judgment burden under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 46b-56d. The Court may consider the child(ren)’s developmental needs and existing relationships, continuity in their environment, and each parent’s ability to remain actively involved. The resulting Parenting Plan must reflect the child(ren)’s best interests based on the evidence presented.
Relocation proceedings require a detailed factual record because the practical consequences of a move can be significant. School schedules may affect whether a proposed Parenting Plan is workable, and travel time can alter regular parenting periods and the child(ren)’s daily routine. The Court may also need evidence concerning how meaningful contact with each parent can be maintained.
In a contested parental relocation matter, a Greenwich attorney should prepare evidence that addresses the proposed Parenting Plan in concrete terms. For high-income families, executive responsibilities or business demands may affect your travel feasibility. The analysis may also require consideration of transportation costs or access to suitable travel arrangements. Where a Guardian ad Litem or custody evaluator becomes involved, any recommendation may inform the Court but does not determine the outcome. The Court retains authority to enter the final Order.
A relocation matter can require the Court to evaluate both an existing parent-child relationship and the practical effects of a substantially different Parenting Plan. Developing a complete record before a Hearing can help ensure that the Court has the information necessary to evaluate the proposed move under the correct legal standard.
A Greenwich relocation lawyer at Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC will help you assess your position and prepare your case with precision. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
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(203) 222-4949