When life changes, parents sometimes need to move—whether for a new job, remarriage, or to be closer to extended family. But if you share custody of a child, relocating isn’t simply a personal decision. Under Nevada law, relocating with a child often requires court approval or the other parent’s written consent. At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, our experienced family law attorneys help parents handle the legal complexities of child custody relocation in Las Vegas to protect their rights and ensure the best interests of the child.
NRS 125C.006 and NRS 125C.0065 address moves with a child when primary or joint physical custody has been established by court order. They cover relocation outside Nevada and moves within Nevada far enough to substantially impair the other parent’s ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.
Before a covered move, the relocating parent must attempt to obtain written consent. If consent is refused, a parent with primary physical custody petitions for permission to relocate. A parent sharing joint physical custody petitions for primary physical custody for the purpose of relocating. Review the current order and proposed arrangement with counsel before moving; a pending request does not itself authorize relocation.
Under NRS 125C.007, the relocating parent must demonstrate a sensible, good-faith reason, that the child’s best interests are served, and an actual advantage for the child and relocating parent. The court then weighs the statutory factors, including realistic continued contact with the other parent. A job offer alone does not decide the case.
Both Danielle J. Ford and Michael C. Flaxman describe relocation experience in their biographies. Bring the order, proposed move date, written communications about consent, and a practical parenting and travel proposal to a consultation.
Parents often pursue relocation for legitimate, life-enhancing reasons, such as:
A compelling new job opportunity in another city or state
Remarrying and joining a spouse who lives elsewhere
Moving closer to extended family who can help support and care for the child
Pursuing specialized educational or medical services for the child
No matter the reason, the parent requesting relocation must prove to the court that the move is made in good faith and is in the best interests of the child.
If you are a parent facing the prospect of your child being moved far away, it’s critical to protect your custodial rights and your relationship with your child. We represent parents opposing relocation by:
Challenging the necessity or benefit of the move
Demonstrating how the relocation would disrupt the child’s stable environment
Advocating for alternative solutions that preserve frequent, meaningful contact with the child
Our attorneys understand how high the stakes are in relocation cases and will fight to secure the outcome that best serves your child’s needs.
When evaluating a relocation request, Nevada courts look closely at:
The potential advantages of the move for the custodial parent and child
Whether the move is in good faith or designed to frustrate the other parent’s relationship
The impact on the child’s relationship with the non-moving parent
The ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with the non-moving parent through revised visitation
The child’s age, needs, and emotional ties to each parent
The feasibility of new visitation arrangements and travel considerations
Any history of domestic violence or other safety concerns
At Ford & Flaxman PLLC, we present comprehensive evidence and tailored arguments to support your relocation request—or to contest an improper one—always focused on the child’s best interests.
Relocation cases are some of the most emotional and complex custody matters. They are often viewed by the court as a “zero-sum” decision—either the move is approved, or it is denied. That’s why having a knowledgeable legal team matters. Clients choose us because we offer:
Extensive experience handling Las Vegas child custody relocation cases
Deep understanding of Nevada’s relocation laws and court expectations
Strategic preparation of evidence, including testimony and expert input
Compassionate, dedicated support through every phase of your case
Whether you are hoping to relocate with your child or seeking to protect your time and bond as the other parent, Ford & Flaxman PLLC is here to help. We guide parents through the relocation process with thoughtful, aggressive representation designed to secure the best possible future for your family.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your relocation or move-away case with an experienced Las Vegas family law attorney.
When a custody order is in place, NRS 125C.006 and 125C.0065 require the appropriate consent or court process before a covered relocation. Primary and joint physical custody involve different petitions if consent is refused. Have counsel review the order before assuming that filing a request, or moving personally, permits moving the child.
NRS 125C.007 requires a sensible good-faith reason, the child’s best interests, and an actual advantage for the child and relocating parent. The court then weighs the statutory factors, including whether a realistic schedule can preserve the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Yes. The response should address the proposed move, statutory requirements, and evidence concerning the child and parenting arrangement. Opposition does not automatically prevent a move, just as a request does not guarantee approval. Observe response deadlines and discuss the order and supporting records promptly with counsel.