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 Wyoming, parental relocation is a matter that can significantly impact child custody arrangements. When a parent wishes to move to a different city or state with their child, they must consider the existing child custody agreement or court order, which may include geographic restrictions designed to ensure that both parents maintain frequent and continuing contact with the child. These restrictions often limit relocation to a certain distance from the child's school district or the parents' residence at the time of the divorce. If a parent wants to relocate for reasons such as new job opportunities, educational purposes, or to be closer to supportive family members, they must either obtain the other parent's agreement to modify the geographic restrictions or file a motion with the court to modify the child custody order. The court will then decide whether to permit or deny the relocation based on the best interests of the child, taking into account factors such as the reasons for the move and the impact on the child's relationship with both parents. If the other parent has failed to meet custody or visitation obligations, this may be considered in the decision-making process. It is important for parents considering relocation to consult with an attorney to navigate the legal requirements and to ensure that their actions are in compliance with Wyoming state statutes and any applicable federal law.