Can a parent with joint physical custody move the children to another state?

A parent with joint physical custody typically must obtain prior approval from the court or the other parent before relocating with a child to another state, explains DivorceNet. The laws of the state governing the custody order specify the exact factors courts must consider when deciding on relocation.

Though the specific legal factors involved vary from state to state, custody laws generally require that the court weigh the possible benefits the move will have on the child against the impact an out-of-state move could have on visitation rights, according to DivorceNet. The parents also may reach a mutual agreement on the custody arrangement without court intervention.