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Legal Information: Pennsylvania

Custody

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Laws current as of October 23, 2024

I have a custody order. Can I move with my child?

If your move will significantly harm (impair) the other parent’s ability to use his/her custody rights, this is considered a relocation. You can only relocate if:

  • everyone with custody rights to your child agrees; or
  • the judge approves it.1

If you are planning to move, you must follow the rules listed in How do I tell the other parent that I want to move?

Unlike some other states, Pennsylvania’s relocation law does not say it only applies to someone moving out of the state or a certain distance away.2 It is generally recommended that you consult with a Pennsylvania custody lawyer to check if your planned move would be considered a relocation that would require you to follow these rules. To find lawyers in your area, go to PA Finding a Lawyer.

1 23 Pa.C.S. §§ 5322(a); 5337(b)
2 See 23 Pa.C.S. § 5337(a)

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