Child custody can be one of the most difficult things to handle during a divorce proceeding, and it can become even more complicated when after custody has been decided, the child later wishes that they could live with the other, non-custodial parent.\u00a0 In the article “Dealing With A Child Who Wants To Change Residency,” by the Separated Parenting Access & Resource Center, it is said that the cause for a child to want to change custody is often due to emotional conflict between the child and custodial parent.<\/p>\n
“When a child’s needs and desires to be with the non-custodial parent are stronger than the desire to be with the custodial parent, this is a clear sign that the child is having emotional conflict and that something is not right in the relationship with the custodial parent.”<\/p>\n
What factors can lead to a good case for re-homing?a good case for re-homing?<\/strong><\/p>\n The court will be extremely cautious when changing the decided custody arrangement for children from the age of nine to 12 unless severe emotional\u00a0distress or conflict can be proven, but there are factors, that if present, may persuade the court to re-evaluate their original decision.\u00a0 Some of the factors include:<\/p>\n Factors that could hurt your chances for changing your child’s residency<\/strong><\/p>\n While there are factors that can prompt the court to look into the change of residency, there are also\u00a0factors that can cause them to deny the claim quickly.\u00a0 Some factors that can work against a noncustodial parent gaining custody include:<\/p>\n Determine why your child wants to make the move<\/strong><\/p>\n It is essential to ascertain the reasons that your child wants to make a move whether it is abuse, neglect, emotional difficulties, or the in the inability to visit with the noncustodial parent as much as they would like.\u00a0 Also, determine how strongly they feel about wanting to move.<\/p>\n Seek third-party involvement<\/strong><\/p>\n Have your child speak to third\u00a0parties to help get an honest, impartial assessment of what the problem may be and how best to help your child.\u00a0 This can include doctors, neighbors, teachers, therapists, or other agencies.\u00a0 This information is also an important piece to have if you need to present the court with evidence of why the move is necessary.<\/p>\n Develop a sound parenting plan<\/strong><\/p>\n The court will not only want to have validations of the reasons that it will be in the child’s best interest to move but will also want to make sure that you have a plan to address the issues and rectify the situation in the child’s new environment.\u00a0 This can include things like therapy plans or plans to improve school work or school behavior.\u00a0 This will show the court your desire to act in the best interest of your child and also\u00a0how you plan to do so.<\/p>\n\n
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