Internal and External Relocation

There are various reasons why one parent may want to relocate within the UK or to another country, such as to move closer to family and friends or because they have been offered an exciting new job opportunity.

Relocating a child will affect both parents and therefore, if both parents do not agree to the relocation (either between themselves or via non-court dispute resolution), they will need to seek the court’s intervention and make an application to the Court for permission to relocate.

If you are concerned that one parent is going to move imminently and is a flight risk, you should instruct a solicitor to issue urgent proceedings to prohibit the Child’s removal until the relocation application has been determined.

When determining whether it is in the Child’s best interest to move, the Court will take into account the Child’s welfare, the impact on the Child’s relationship with both parents and the impact on the parents in the event of giving permission or refusal to relocate.

It is a holistic balancing exercise and there is no black and white answer to how the court deals with a relocation case. It is important to receive specialist advice when preparing your supporting evidence and understanding your prospects of success.

How can Ellis Jones help?

Our family solicitors specialise in dealing with internal and international relocation case.

If you are considering relocating within the UK or to another country with your child or the other parent of your child has expressed a wish to relocate, we urge you to seek legal advice immediately.

Get in touch with a specialist member of our family team for more expert advice and guidance.