Moving with your child, or stopping a move that hurts your relationship.
A new job, family support, or a fresh start can make a move feel necessary. For the other parent, the same move can mean losing precious time with their child. Attorney Jessica Ramirez-Garcia represents Miami-Dade and Broward parents on both sides of relocation cases, in English or Spanish.
Call (305) 201-0529 · Hablamos Español
What counts as relocation in Florida
Under Florida law, relocation is a change in a parent’s main residence of more than 50 miles from where they lived when the last order was entered, for at least 60 consecutive days. Temporary trips for vacation, education, or health care are not relocation.
How a parent can relocate
- By written agreement. If the other parent agrees, you can sign a written agreement with a new time-sharing schedule and transportation plan, and ask the court to approve it.
- By petition. If the other parent does not agree, you must file a petition to relocate with specific information about the move. The other parent has 20 days after service to file an objection.
Moving without an agreement or court permission can hurt your case and may lead the court to order the child returned.
What the court considers
- The child’s relationship with each parent, siblings, and extended family
- The child’s age, developmental stage, and needs
- Whether the move will improve the life of the parent and child, such as through better job, school, or family support
- Whether a new schedule can preserve the child’s relationship with the other parent
- Each parent’s reasons for wanting or opposing the move
- Any history of domestic violence
The parent who wants to relocate must first show that the move is in the child’s best interest. If they do, the other parent must show that it is not.
How we help
- Preparing a relocation agreement that works for both parents
- Filing a petition to relocate with all required information
- Objecting to a proposed move on time and with evidence
- Proposing long-distance parenting plans with fair travel and video-call schedules
- Emergency action if a child has been moved without permission
Why parents choose JRG Law
- Bilingual representation in English and Spanish.
- Personal attention. You work directly with Jessica, a Florida Bar member since 2018.
- A compassionate approach shaped by her background in psychology.
- Two offices, by appointment in West Kendall and Coral Gables.
Frequently asked questions
Do the relocation rules apply if there is no court order yet?
Yes. Florida’s relocation law also applies when parents do not have an existing court order but a case is pending, and it can affect a later case.
What if I miss the 20-day deadline to object?
The court may presume the move is in the child’s best interest and allow it without a hearing. Speak with a lawyer as soon as you are served.
Can I move within Miami-Dade without permission?
A move of 50 miles or less is not relocation under the statute, but your parenting plan may have its own rules, such as notice of a new address.
Can I relocate to another country?
International relocation is possible but involves more scrutiny, including how the child will return for time-sharing.
Talk to a Miami relocation lawyer today
Call (305) 201-0529 or schedule your free consultation online. We serve families throughout Miami-Dade and Broward. Se habla español.
The information on this page is general and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.