What if my ex-wife just got a new job in another state, and wants to move there with the child(ren)?

A custodial parent moving away and taking the child(ren) will most certainly disrupt the relationship between the child(ren) and the non-custodial parent. More often than not, the custodial parent has a valid reason for the move, be it a new job, new partner, or whatever, but sometimes the custodial parent will relocate just to annoy the non-custodial parent as part of the unfortunate ongoing battle in which some divorced parents involve themselves.

In most states the custodial parent will have the right to move if he or she has a legitimate reason, as noted. The non-custodial parent would have the burden of showing that the move would not be in the best interests of the child(ren). The proof would have to be something more than mere inconvenience for the non-custodial parent. However, in some states, the custodial parent must get permission from the non-custodial parent or the court to move. In this case, the custodial parent has the burden of showing the move would be in the best interests of the child. The issue of relocation is a touchy subject and is certainly decided by the court or a case by case basis.