How Can I Make the Case that Moving is Good for My Child?

 Posted on August 14, 2025 in Child Support

Relocating with a child after a divorce or new parenting plan in Illinois is not as simple as packing boxes and renting a moving truck. Under Illinois law, a parent who wants to move a certain distance must either get the other parent’s agreement or obtain permission from the court. If your child primarily lives with you, you may be able to move, but only if you can show that the relocation is in your child’s best interests. 

Attorney Cosley is a Rolling Meadows, IL child custody lawyer with more than 30 years of family law experience. He personally handles every aspect of his cases. When you call him, you will speak directly with your lawyer, not a paralegal or assistant.

What Counts as a Child Relocation in Illinois?

As of August 2025, Illinois child relocation laws remain governed by 750 ILCS 5/609.2 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (IMDMA). In Illinois, a "relocation" is more than just moving across town. If you live in Cook County, Lake County, Kane County, DuPage County, or McHenry County, a move of more than 25 miles from your current home is considered a relocation. For counties outside this area, the threshold is 50 miles. Moves outside Illinois of more than 25 miles from your current home also qualify.

How Do I Show the Move Is in My Child’s Best Interests?

A judge will not grant relocation just because you want a change of scenery. You must show clear, credible reasons why your child will benefit from the move. Illinois law tells judges to consider:

• The reasons for the proposed move and the reasons the other parent may object

• The history and quality of each parent’s relationship with the child

• The educational opportunities at the new location compared to the current one

• The presence or absence of extended family at each location

• The child’s wishes, depending on age and maturity

• How the move will affect parenting time for the other parent

You will need evidence supporting your claim that the move would be good for your child. This might include school district rankings, cost-of-living comparisons, testimony from relatives, and plans for staying in close contact with the other parent.

Common Reasons a Judge Might Approve Your Request to Move with Your Child

Parents’ relocation requests have been approved for reasons such as a great job offer, moving closer to supportive family, or access to specialized medical care or educational programs for the child. For example, if your new city offers an outstanding special education program that your child needs, that can weigh heavily in your favor. Moving is tough on kids, so the key is to show that the benefits outweigh the disruption caused by the move.

Support Your Request for Child Relocation with a Detailed Parenting Plan

Relocation cases can quickly become contentious, and the burden is on you to prove the move will benefit your child.  Even if the court agrees that relocation is beneficial, judges want to see a clear plan for how your child will maintain a relationship with the other parent. This could involve extended summer visits, frequent video calls, or alternating holidays. A well-thought-out parenting plan shows that you are committed to supporting your child’s bond with both parents.

Contact an Arlington Heights, IL Child Relocation Lawyer

When you work with Attorney Cosley, you will have direct access to your legal representative throughout your case. He personally prepares your filings, handles negotiations, and represents you in court. Your questions will never be passed down to a paralegal or subordinate; you will speak directly with the attorney advocating for you and your child.

If you are considering relocating with your child, it is important to start preparing your case early. Contact the Rolling Meadows, IL child custody attorney at the Law Offices of Donald J. Cosley by calling 847-253-3100 to schedule your free consultation. We will review your situation, explain your legal options, and work with you to present the strongest possible case for your move.