When parents separate or divorce, moving to a new home can become more complicated when a child is involved. A move that significantly increases the distance between parents can affect parenting time, school schedules, transportation, and the child’s relationship with both parents.
Not every move to a new home is considered a legal “relocation” under Illinois family law. Illinois uses specific distance requirements to determine when the relocation rules apply.
For a child’s primary residence located in DuPage County, a move within Illinois is generally considered a relocation when the new home is more than 25 miles away from the child’s current primary residence.
A move outside Illinois is also considered a relocation when the new residence is more than 25 miles from the child’s current primary residence. Distance is measured using surface roads.
The circumstances and reasons behind the proposed relocation.
If the other parent opposes relocation, the court can consider why they believe the move should not occur.
The history and quality of the child’s relationship with each parent can be important.
The court may compare the child’s educational opportunities in the current community with those available after relocation.
Consider the presence of grandparents and other family members in both locations.
The court considers how the proposed relocation could affect the child’s daily life and overall well-being.
Relocation with a child can require more than just changing where exchanges take place. A parenting schedule that worked when parents lived close together may become difficult when they live farther apart.
For example, frequent weekday exchanges may no longer be realistic if the child must travel a significant distance between homes. Parents may instead consider longer periods of parenting time during the weekends, holidays, school breaks, and summer vacation
