Child Custody and Relocation in Texas: What Parents Should Know

Relocation is one of the most complex issues in Texas custody law. A move can affect school, stability, and a child’s relationship with both parents. It can also trigger serious court action.

At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, we regularly advise parents in Fort Worth and Southlake who want to relocate, as well as parents who need to prevent their coparent from making a move. These cases require careful planning and quick action.

Can a Parent Move a Child Without Permission in Texas?

A custodial parent cannot simply move with a child, even for a very good reason. Texas custody orders often include geographic restrictions. These limits usually tie the child’s primary residence to a county or a group of nearby counties. If the custody order includes a geographic restriction, a custodial parent who moves the child violates the order.

If a parent wants to move outside the allowed area, they usually need one of two things. The other parent’s written agreement. Or a court order that modifies the current custody arrangement.

Moving a child without permission can have serious consequences. A judge may order the child returned. The court may also change custody or limit future rights. These risks are too high to ignore.

Moving Out of State with Joint Custody

Moving out of state with joint custody almost always requires court approval. Texas courts focus on the best interest of the child. That standard guides every relocation decision.

Judges look closely at how the move will affect visitation. They consider travel time, cost, and how often the non-moving parent will see the child. The court also examines the quality of each parent’s relationship with the child and whether that bond will be endangered after the move.

Even when a move seems reasonable, approval is never automatic.

How Far Can a Parent Move with Joint Custody?

Many Texas orders limit residence to a specific county and the counties that touch it. Some orders are broader. Others are more strict. Every case is different.

Parents are often surprised to learn that even a short move can cause problems. If the relocation interferes with school routines or visitation schedules, it may require a court modification.

What Courts Consider When Evaluating a Relocation Request

When deciding a child custody relocation request, Texas courts examine several key factors.

The reason for the move matters. Judges want to see a legitimate purpose, such as a job opportunity, remarriage, or support from extended family.

The court looks at how the move will affect the child’s education, emotional health, and daily stability. Past involvement by both parents is also important. A parent who has been actively involved is unlikely to be pushed aside.

Judges also evaluate whether the move supports or harms the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent. Courts may consider alternative visitation schedules to offset extra distance.

Texas law emphasizes the child’s best interest, as outlined in Texas Family Code Sections 153.001 and 153.134. These statutes guide judges in relocation cases.

Reasons a Judge May Deny Relocation

Courts deny relocation requests more often than many parents expect. A judge may say no if the move appears retaliatory or meant to interfere with the other parent’s rights.

Relocation may also be denied if it disrupts a strong parent-child relationship or lacks a clear purpose. A poor co-parenting history or refusal to support visitation can also work against the moving parent.

Steps for Parents Who Want to Relocate

Parents considering a move should follow these steps:

1. Start with a careful review of their current custody order. Geographic restrictions are often buried in the details.
2. Document the reasons for the move. Job offers, housing plans, and school information all matter.
3. If possible, discuss your reasons for the move with the other parent to try to come to an agreement. Do this regardless of whether or not your current order includes a geographic restriction.
4. If you and your coparent agree to a relocation, that agreement should be documented in a written order and approved by the court.
5. If you cannot agree, a formal modification request must be filed. Preparation is critical. The court will expect clear proof that the move supports the child’s best interests.

What to Do If the Other Parent Wants to Move Your Child

If the other parent plans to relocate with your child, don’t wait to take action. Texas courts can act quickly when a move threatens a child’s stability.

You may need to seek injunctive relief or request a custody modification. Acting early can prevent the child from being moved before the court hears your concerns.

Parents in this position often benefit from working with a Fort Worth child custody attorney who understands relocation disputes and local courts.

How MBH Helps with Relocation Cases

Relocation cases are high-stakes matters. At Mims Ballew Hollingsworth, our attorneys handle complex custody litigation for professionals, business owners, and high-net-worth families.

What sets our firm apart is collaboration. Instead of assigning your case to a single lawyer, our attorneys work together and share insight. This team approach allows us to build stronger strategies for both relocation requests and objections.

We regularly handle cases involving demanding careers, multiple properties, and complex parenting schedules. Our goal is to protect your child and your parental rights.

Considering a Relocation? Talk to Us First

If you are thinking about moving, or if the other parent plans to relocate with your child, get legal guidance first. Even small moves can create major problems.

Contact Mims Ballew Hollingsworth before you take action. Schedule a confidential consultation or contact us today.

Fort Worth, TX Divorce & Family Lawyers

Constance Mims has over fifteen years of experience practicing exclusively family law. Mrs. Mims is Board Certified in Family Law, by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She is Collaborative Law certified and is a shrewd negotiator, not to mention her experience in the most challenging child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, alimony, prenuptial agreements, and divorce issues, both in court and in the appellate arena.

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