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North Carolina Family Law
Greensboro Relocation Custody Lawyer: move away requests, objections and modifications
Relocation cases require careful planning and fast action in Guilford County. We prepare relocation proposals and objections that address school schedules, flights or driving time, cost sharing, virtual contact and a parenting plan that fits the best interests standard applied by North Carolina courts.
Move away and relocation counsel in Guilford County
Krispen Culbertson has represented Greensboro parents for 20 plus years in custody, relocation and modification cases. We use focused discovery, mediation and clean orders that schools, airlines and law enforcement can follow.
Fast answers
Best interests standard under G.S. 50-13.2 guides custody decisions. Courts weigh stability, caregiving history, safety and how a move affects the child and the parent child relationship.
Modification requires a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child under G.S. 50-13.7. A proposed move can qualify when it impacts schooling, schedules or access.
Notice and details are persuasive. Include the new address if known, school calendar, work schedule, proposed parenting plan and travel cost plan.
Mediation is often required in Guilford County custody cases before trial. Many relocation disputes resolve with detailed consent orders.
Jurisdiction follows the UCCJEA at G.S. Chapter 50A. North Carolina generally keeps jurisdiction while the child has a home state connection.
Relocation law in North Carolina
North Carolina does not use a single distance rule. Courts make case by case decisions using the best interests standard. A parent asking to move with a child should show reasons for the move, the educational and family support picture at the new location, and a schedule that preserves meaningful time with the other parent. A parent objecting to relocation should show how the move would harm stability or access and present a practical alternative schedule in Greensboro.
Building a relocation plan the court can accept
- School calendar and proposed enrollment including start times and transportation
- Travel plan for weekends, holidays and summer with specific pick up and drop off locations
- Cost sharing for flights, gas and lodging and how reimbursements work
- Virtual contact plan with days, times and video platform details
- Passport and travel consent language when out of state trips are expected
- Communication and notice rules for schedule changes and delays
Objecting to a proposed move
If you oppose a relocation, file a motion to modify custody or to enforce the current order. Ask for a temporary schedule that preserves status quo until the court hears evidence. Bring school records, calendars, childcare arrangements and testimony that show the child benefits from remaining in Greensboro or on the current schedule.
Temporary orders in the first 60 to 90 days
- Short term schedule to maintain routine and exchanges
- Decision making rules for school selection and medical care
- Travel notices and passport handling if a trip is planned
- Non harassment and safe exchange provisions if conflict is high
UCCJEA and out of state moves
The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act at G.S. Chapter 50A controls which state can decide custody. North Carolina usually remains the home state for six months after a move if the child lived here with a parent. When a competing case is filed elsewhere, the courts can confer to decide the proper forum. We file the right affidavits so the court has a clear record.
International relocation and travel
For international moves or extended travel, orders can include passport control, notice of flight numbers and itineraries, and return dates. If abduction risk is a concern, we can add conditions such as supervised exchanges, bond requirements or limits on travel. Hague Convention issues may arise in some countries and require early planning.
Process and timeline
Intake and goals – confirm order history and deadlines
Evidence pull – school records, calendars, job offers, housing, travel options and costs
File and notice – motion to modify or motion to approve relocation with a proposed order
Temporary hearing – seek interim schedule and travel rules
Mediation – negotiate a detailed parenting plan and cost allocation
Hearing or trial – present best interests evidence with a workable order the clerk can enter
Related family law services in Greensboro
Evidence checklist
- Copies of current custody orders and any pending filings
- School calendars, performance reports and enrollment information
- Job offer letters, work schedules and housing details at the proposed location
- Flight options, drive times and cost estimates for exchanges
- Childcare, medical and therapy provider information
- Logs of parenting time, exchanges and communication patterns
- Any police reports, protective orders or safety concerns
FAQs – Greensboro Relocation Custody
Can I move with my child before the court changes the order?
Moving without permission can violate an existing order. File a motion and seek a temporary schedule first so there is a clear plan that the court can enforce.
How far can a parent move without court approval?
North Carolina does not use a fixed mileage rule. The key question is whether the move is a substantial change that affects the child and requires a modification of the order.
Who pays for travel if relocation is allowed?
Courts can allocate travel costs based on income, distance and the reasons for the move. Good orders spell out cost sharing, booking deadlines and exchange locations.
Which state has jurisdiction if the other parent files in a new state?
Under the UCCJEA, North Carolina generally keeps jurisdiction while it remains the home state or has significant connections. Courts can confer to decide the proper forum.
Can I get emergency custody if I fear abduction?
Emergency relief may be available in limited circumstances when there is immediate risk. The court requires specific evidence. We can prepare a focused request with supporting documents.
Will child support change if one parent relocates?
Support can be reviewed when schedules and expenses change. Travel costs and new income or childcare expenses can be addressed in a modification.
Why Greensboro families choose Culbertson and Associates
- 20 plus years handling relocation and custody calendars in Guilford County
- Detailed parenting plans that fit school calendars and airline schedules
- UCCJEA affidavits and filings that keep jurisdiction clear
- Mediation first when possible and focused trial preparation when needed
- Straightforward fees and steady timelines
Visit Our Greensboro Office
Culbertson and Associates
315 Spring Garden St Ste #300, Greensboro, NC 27401
Phone:
(336) 272-4299
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–5:00 PM
Areas we serve: Greensboro, High Point, Jamestown, Summerfield, Oak Ridge, Burlington and greater Guilford County.
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