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Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs. Following a divorce, maybe a job opportunity pops up in another city. Maybe you want to move closer to family. Or maybe you just need a fresh start somewhere new.
But when you have kids and share custody, moving is not as simple as packing boxes and calling the movers. In Colorado, it gets complicated fast. And honestly, that makes sense. The laws are designed to protect your child’s stability, but when you are the parent trying to move, it can feel like you are stuck between doing what is best for you and what the court thinks is best for your child.
Child custody cases and post-divorce modifications involving children are emotionally and legally complex. A knowledgeable Denver child custody lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your rights and interests at every stage.
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When a Move Turns Into a Relocation
Here is where things get confusing. Not every move counts as a relocation. If you are just moving across town, say from Lakewood to Littleton, the court usually stays out of it unless the move really disrupts your current parenting plan. But if you are moving farther, such as from Denver to Colorado Springs, or out of state, that is when the legal process kicks in.
Basically, if your move makes it harder for the other parent to see your child as frequently as before, it is considered a relocation. And once that happens, you cannot just go. You have to follow certain steps before packing up.
How to Do It the Right Way
If you want or need to move, the law in Colorado says you have to give the other parent written notice before anything happens. That notice should include three things:
- Where you plan to move
- Why you are moving
- What kind of new parenting plan you are proposing
Once the other parent gets that notice, they have two options: agree, or object. And if they object, things head to court. A judge will then look at everything and decide whether the move is allowed.
It might sound frustrating (and it can be), but the idea is to protect your child’s relationship with both parents. So before you start house-hunting or scheduling movers, make sure you go through the proper steps.
What the Judge Really Cares About
When it comes down to it, the court is not focused on what is best for you or your ex. It is all about what is best for your child. That is the guiding principle in every Colorado custody decision. When deciding on a relocation, judges look at things like:
- Why you want to move
- Why the other parent objects
- How close and connected the child is to each parent
- How the move might affect your child emotionally, socially, and academically
- Whether the move allows both parents to stay involved
- What kind of support system (family, school, friends) your child would have in the new place
The judge is not there to punish or reward anyone. Their job is to figure out which situation gives your child the most stable, loving, and consistent environment possible.
It Is Not About “Winning” or “Losing”
This is where things get tough emotionally. Relocation cases are deeply personal. You might feel like your entire future depends on the outcome, and in some ways, it does.
But here is the thing: both parents usually have good reasons for what they want. One might need to move for work or family, while the other just wants to stay close to their child. Both sides are valid.
Colorado courts know this, which is why they look carefully at the whole picture. Sometimes, the court will approve the move but make adjustments, like giving the non-moving parent extended time during summer breaks or holidays. Other times, the judge might say no if it feels like the move would make co-parenting nearly impossible.
It is rarely black and white. These decisions are all about finding balance in a situation that feels anything but balanced.
How to Handle a Potential Move
If you are thinking about relocating, a little preparation can make a huge difference. Here are a few ways to keep things calm and cooperative:
- Talk to the other parent early: Before you file anything, try to sit down and have an honest conversation. Be clear about why you want to move, and really listen to their concerns. Sometimes, showing that you are not trying to cut them out can help lower their defenses.
- Make a realistic plan: If you propose a new custody schedule, make sure it is doable. How will travel work? Who covers costs? How often will video calls happen? Judges want to see that you have thought through the details.
- Keep the focus on your child: This part matters most. The court wants to know how the move benefits your child and not just you. Talk about better schools, stronger family support, or more stability, and always tie it back to your child’s well-being.
- Get good legal advice: Colorado’s relocation laws can get complicated. Talking to a Denver child custody attorney sooner rather than later can save you from a lot of stress (and possible mistakes) later on.
If You Are the Parent Who Does Not Want the Move
Now, if you are the parent on the other side, it can feel heartbreaking. You have rights, too.
You can file an objection and explain why you believe the move would hurt your child’s well-being. Maybe it would take them away from their school, their friends, or you. The court will absolutely listen to your side.
If this is where you find yourself, keep records. Document your involvement, including pickups, drop-offs, school activities, everything. It helps show that your bond with your child is strong and consistent. Judges pay attention to that.
Do Not Relocate Without Permission
It happens more than you might think. Someone gets frustrated, feels cornered, and just leaves. But that can backfire badly in these cases.
If you relocate without going through the legal process, you can be held in contempt of court. That can mean fines, loss of custody, or other serious consequences. Even if you think the move is completely justified, take the legal route in consultation with a Denver child custody lawyer.