Texas custody arrangements are generally legally binding, which means you will have to bring a modification request before the court if you want to relocate to another state. Getting help from family law firms in Houston is always a smart move here to ensure you’re able to make a move if you need to.
What Are Your Parental Rights If You Relocate to Another State After a Custody Agreement?
Right to Request a Modification of the Custody Agreement
Texas law does require you to come before the court to get approval for major changes: but by the same token, you are always free to petition the court if your circumstances have changed.
As with your original custody arrangement, you can expect that the court will be most concerned about what is best for the child. Your lawyer will help you to present a case for the move that shows how it aligns with your child’s best interest and how you will maintain parental involvement in your child’s life. Visit this page to learn more about a lawyer who can help with family law issues.
Right to Maintain Visitation and Communication
Even if you move to another state, you still have the right to have a meaningful relationship with your child. While Texas courts will prioritize the child’s well-being, they will not cut you off from your child’s life just because you’ve moved to another state. You also have the right to keep up regular communication with your child, which means that you may need accommodation for video calls, emails, and phone calls for ongoing contact with your child.
If your ex-spouse is the custodial parent and does not ordinarily allow the child to have a cell phone or spend time online, you may need the court to help put in specific provisions to your custody arrangement that allow you to remain in constant communication with your child.
Right to Be Involved in Decision-Making
A key parental right is the right to be involved in all the significant decisions of your child’s life. If you have joint managing conservatorship with your ex, your right to be involved in these major decisions does not go away just because you have left the state. However, you may need to work with your lawyer to present a workable solution to the court that allows for specific methods of communication and decision-making.
Right to Work With Family Law Firms in Houston
Trying to work out how to arrange things for a big move can be difficult, and you always have the right to find a qualified and experienced family law firm to help you present the best case to your court and fight for your rights to be involved in the life of your child.
Moving out of state can introduce some complexities into your custody arrangements, but these can be overcome with a good plan. Talk to a qualified and experience family law firm as soon as possible to get started.
