Moving to a new city with your children after divorce isn't as simple as packing boxes and hiring a moving truck. In Indiana, relocating with children when you share custody requires careful planning and substantial evidence to support your case. Whether you're moving for a better job, family support, or educational opportunities, your success in court largely depends on the evidence you gather before filing your notice of intent to relocate. This blog will explore essential evidence for child relocation in Indiana.
The cornerstone of any successful relocation case is clear evidence of why you're moving. If you're relocating for a job, don't just wave around an offer letter. Build a comprehensive employment file that includes: detailed salary comparisons showing improved financial prospects; benefits packages that demonstrate better opportunities for your family; documentation of career advancement potential; and evidence of unsuccessful job searches in your current location. There can be a similar case made for someone seeking relocation to pursue education.
Courts prioritize children's well-being above all else. When preparing your case, gather evidence that specifically demonstrates how the move benefits your children. This means going beyond simple school rankings to paint a complete picture of opportunity and stability. Make side-by-side analysis of school programs or special education resources available in the new location. Look for extracurricular activities that match your child’s interest and compile evidence of community programs that would support her children’s development. Perhaps the most delicate aspect of any relocation case is demonstrating how you'll maintain the children's relationship with their other parent.
Courts look favorably on parents who show they've thoroughly considered this challenge and developed practical solutions. Create a detailed parenting time proposal that includes: realistic visitation schedules that maximize meaningful contact; technology plans for regular video calls and virtual interaction; holiday arrangements that ensure quality time with both parents; and transportation details with cost breakdowns. Moving involves significant expenses, and courts want assurance that you can maintain stability in your new location. Prepare a comprehensive financial portfolio including: housing costs and comparisons; employment verification and income projections; moving expense estimates; long-term budget projections; and cost analysis for maintaining parenting time arrangements.
Success often lies in presentation. Create a clear, organized evidence package that tells your story logically and compellingly. Use professional assistance from an experienced attorney to help present your evidence to the Court. Remember that Indiana requires notice of intent to relocate at least 90 days before your planned move. Start gathering evidence well before this deadline. Relocating with children after divorce requires more than just a good reason to move. Success depends on thorough documentation that demonstrates how the move serves both legitimate purposes and your children's best interests. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have a comprehensive background in relocation matters in Indiana family law. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C., and this blog is not intended as specific legal advice or solicitation of services as this is an advertisement.
