Criminal Defense Lawyers

Manhattan Relocation Lawyer

When a couple divorces or separates, a court will typically order the child to live with one parent – the custodial parent. The noncustodial parent is then assigned a visitation schedule with the children. When one parent decides to relocate, there are many legal details that must be addressed first. This can not only involve amendments to an existing custody agreement, but the relocation itself may need to be approved. If the noncustodial parent is strongly opposed to the relocation, it may take a compelling argument to convince the court that the move is what is best for the child.

Whether you are fighting for or against the move, a Manhattan relocation lawyer can help you identify what steps you need to take. The court’s primary concern will be how the move will affect your child. An experienced attorney can help you identify the best way to frame your argument with the court to get your desired outcome.

Reasons For Relocating

Before the court can make a decision regarding whether or not relocation is in the best interest of the child, a number of factors will be taken into account. These factors include:

• The reason that the custodial parent wishes to relocate.
• The reason that the noncustodial parent is opposed to the proposed relocation.
• Enrichment and educational opportunities for the child at the current and proposed locations.
• The history and quality of relationship each parent has with their child.
• Current child custody and visitation orders and how well each parent has complied to the order.
• Any advantages of the current custody and visitation arrangements.
• The family support system available at both the existing and proposed locations.
• The impact, positive or negative, that the move may have on the child.
• Whether or not the court is able to establish a schedule that includes reasonable parenting time for both parents if the relocation is granted.
• If the relocation requires one parent to travel in order to spend time with the child, lodging and travel expense are also taken into account.

Arguing Your Case

As the parent seeking relocation, you will need a solid plan. First, you’ll need to be able to prove to the court that you have a good reason for relocating. Acceptable reasons typically include things like work or remarriage. You will also have to prove that the move will benefit your children financially, emotionally and educationally. It may be advantageous to argue that the relocation would afford your children a better standard of living or give them access to better schools or educational programs that are not offered where you currently live. Next, you will need to be able to show the court how you intend to maintain the relationship your child currently has with the other parent.

If you are the parent that is contesting the relocation, it is advised that you take the opposite approach. The center of your argument should be that the move is unnecessary and that moving the children from their current environment would have a negative impact on their life and the relationship you’ve established with them. If the other parent says they are moving for a better job opportunity, you could argue that there are plenty of comparable jobs where they currently live. Similarly, if the other parent argues that they want to move to remarry, you could propose that the new spouse could be the one to move rather than moving the children further away from their friends and family.

No matter which side of the relocation issue you are on, you will also need to show that you have been an active part of your child’s life up to this point. This means taking full advantage of your visitation rights and paying child support as ordered. Also, if the court decides that it is in the child’s best interest for them to remain in New York, you should be prepared to accept full custody if the other parent insists on moving away.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

How a Manhattan Relocation Lawyer Can Help

While relocation cases can be difficult, the goal is to find a way for both parties to maintain a meaningful relationship with their children. This means deciding which location is in their best interest. The Spodek Law Group has the knowledge and experience it takes to help successfully work toward a favorable resolution of your case.