Question: What are the “rules” in WA in regards to the Custodial Parent moving out of state? We married in WA & divorced in CA. The only parenting plan in place, is part of the divorce decree from CA & indicates who has custody & we indicated some ‘minor’ visitation guidelines. I have primary physical custody & he has visitation every other weekend (all 3) & 1 day a week for each kid individually (rotation). I want to move to AZ to live closer to my family & he doesn’t want me to. He thinks I’m not thinking of the kids & what’s good for them. I, of course, disagree. I will get a lot more support being closer to my family (parents/brothers) & his parents/sister live within 2 hours of where I’d like to move. I don’t have a job in AZ yet, but with my skills, not concerned about finding something.
Answer: Generally, if the children will not change school districts when the custodial parent moves, he or she must give sixty-day’ notice to the other parent who is not allowed to object to the relocation but if appropriate may move for modification of the parenting plan. Generally, if the children will change school districts when the custodial parent moves, he or she must give sixty-day’ notice to the other parent who is allowed to object to the relocation and ask for a new parenting plan.
