Parental relocation refers to a situation in which a parent wants to move to a different city or state with their child from a previous relationship. Such a parent will typically have a child custody agreement with the child’s other parent that is an enforceable court order—often included in the divorce decree or in another court order for child custody and support obligations (in a suit affecting parent-child relationship or SAPCR).

The reasons a parent may want to relocate include a new job opportunity, educational opportunities, or to be closer to family members who are able to assist with raising the child. The other parent’s failure to meet child custody or visitation obligations may be cited as a factor in support of the parental relocation.

Child custody agreements and court orders typically include geographic restrictions on the parents’ travel with the children and on relocation of the parents’ residences—limiting relocation to a certain number of miles from the child’s school district or the parents’ residence at the time of divorce, for example. These restrictions are designed to ensure both parents will have frequent and continuing contact with the child.

Geographic restrictions can be changed by agreement of the parents or by court order if the spouse seeking to relocate files a motion to modify the child custody order. If the parents are not able to agree on relocation terms the court will generally make the decision on whether to permit or deny relocation based on what is in the best interests of the child.

In Oregon, parental relocation is governed by state statutes and family law principles that prioritize the best interests of the child. When a parent with custody wishes to move to a different city or state, they must consider the terms of any existing child custody agreement or court order, which may include geographic restrictions designed to maintain the child's relationship with both parents. If a parent needs to relocate for reasons such as employment, education, or family support, and the move would violate the geographic restrictions, they must seek a modification of the custody order. This can be done either by mutual agreement with the other parent or by filing a motion with the court. If the parents cannot agree, the court will decide whether to allow the relocation based on various factors, including the child's needs, the reasons for the move, the impact on the child's relationship with the non-relocating parent, and the ability to maintain a parenting time schedule that continues to foster a relationship with both parents. The overriding concern is always the child's best interests, and the court will carefully weigh all relevant factors in making its determination.