Travel Tips for Parents After Divorce

After your divorce or custody case is over, you may be unclear about what the rules are when it comes to traveling with your child. Can you take your child out of state? Can you take your child out of the country? Do you need permission to travel from the other parent? Your attorney can tell you what your order says. In general, unless there are restrictions or clear directions in the order for travel, you can travel with your child.

When you are planning a trip with your child, pay attention to the parenting schedule. You can only plan trips during your regular parenting time. Many orders give parents extended times during summers or vacation to allow them to travel with their children. If you are required to notify the other parent of the dates for your trip, do so as soon as possible so that he or she can plan around them. You don’t want to get into a situation where both parents plan a trip for the same week.

It is always reasonable to tell the other parent where you will be going and how to reach you, even if your court order does not require you to share this information. Sharing this information promotes trust and allows the other parent to feel comfortable while you are away. If your child’s other parent is anxious it is likely you will receive many phone calls during your vacation, so it’s best to avoid this.

Make sure your child is in touch with the other parent while you are gone. Whether this is by phone, text, or Skype, staying in contact is important for your child. Additionally your order might require you to have your child contact the other parent while you are away.

Contact the Sampair Group for help with your custody, divorce, or post-decree modification case. Our attorneys provide clear heads, compassionate ears, and years of honed legal experience to get you the best results possible.