Opinion ID: 1677581
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: proposed standard for removal

Text: Because a custodial parent's effort to remove a child from a particular geographical area [15] has the same practical effect as a petition to alter the visitation provision of the original decree, I would hold that whenever removal is formally challenged by a noncustodial parent the custodial parent must show that the move is prompted by a substantial change in circumstances and is consistent with the child's best interests. In meeting this burden, the custodial parent may establish a substantial change in circumstances by showing that the move is based on reasonable grounds. Vague and insubstantial reasons are unacceptable. [16] Convincing and determinate reasons, on the other hand, are presumptively adequate. [17] To establish that the move is consistent with the child's best interests, the parent may present evidence showing that the child will not be substantially harmed by the move. Once the custodial parent has made his or her initial showing, the court will then evaluate the best interests of the child by assessing the motives for, [18] and impact of, the move on all parties, including the child, [19] the custodial parent, [20] and the noncustodial parent. [21] Where the noncustodial parent has exercised extensive visitation and decisionmaking rights and nurtured a positive, loving relationship with the child, this will be given great weight. Because the custodial parent has been judicially determined to be best suited to provide for the residential needs of the child, every effort should be made to keep the primary physical residence of the child intact with that parent. Thus, where the custodial parent demonstrates convincing reasons for a move, [22] permission for removal ordinarily should be granted. Whenever possible the court must provide for a reasonable and realistic alternative visitation schedule, in keeping with the Legislature's determination that the best interests of the child are served through shared parenting and maintaining frequent and continuing contact with both parents.