DuPage County International Child Custody Attorneys

Issues to Address in International Child Custody Cases

There are numerous reasons why a person may choose to relocate to a different country after getting divorced. A foreign-born spouse may wish to return to their home country and live among people who speak their language and share their religious or cultural values. A person may want to be closer to family members who can provide them with financial and emotional support and assist with childcare. An ex-spouse may also be looking to pursue opportunities in other countries, such as a new job or educational opportunities for their children.

If a parent's choice to relocate to a different country will affect their children's relationship with them or the other parent, the couple will need to determine how to handle child custody arrangements. Multiple options may be available, including having children live primarily with one parent while visiting the other parent in another country during certain times of the year. Depending on the distances involved and the feasibility of international travel, a parent or child may be able to make short-term visits for the purposes of regular parenting time. To ensure that a parent and child can maintain contact, arrangements may be made for regular communication, such as phone calls or video chats on certain days and times each week.

When addressing matters related to international child custody, a variety of factors may be considered, including:

• Will moving to another country provide benefits for a parent or child? Are there job opportunities or social services available that will ensure that children can receive the proper care?
• Will relocating children to another country affect their relationships or connection to their local community? It may not be in children's best interests to uproot them from their homes and schools and move to a new country where they do not speak the local language or are unfamiliar with local customs.
• Can one or both parents afford to travel to spend time with their children on a regular basis?
• How will moving to another country affect a child's ability to maintain relationships with other family members, such as grandparents?
• Are there any risks associated with moving to another country, such as political instability or the potential for child abduction?
• What are the child's wishes? The child's age and maturity may also be factors that are taken into consideration when making child custody decisions in international cases. Generally, the opinions of older children are given more weight in these types of decisions, as they are better able to express their own preferences and needs.
• What are the parent's motivations for moving? Is an international relocation being made for good-faith reasons or out of a desire to minimize contact between the children and the other parent? Likewise, does the other parent have a valid objection to an international relocation?

Contact Our DuPage County International Child Custody Attorneys

If you are a parent who is planning to move to another country following your divorce, or if you are concerned that your ex's plans to relocate will affect your relationship with your children, it is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. At Farooqi & Husain Law Office, we have experience handling a variety of child custody cases, including those that involve international relocation. Our Oakbrook Terrace child custody lawyers will work with you to understand your unique situation and help you determine the best course of action for your family. To schedule a consultation, contact our office today at 630-909-9114. We represent clients in DuPage County, Cook County, Will County, and Kane County.