Relocation with a Child in Louisiana: What Parents Need to Know Before Moving

Can a Parent Relocate with a Child in Louisiana?

Whether you have been offered a job in another city, want to move closer to family, or are simply seeking a fresh start, relocating with your child after a Louisiana custody order is in place is a legally complex decision. Louisiana's child relocation statute — found at Louisiana Revised Statute 9:355.1 et seq. — establishes strict notice requirements and court procedures that parents must follow before moving a child any significant distance from the other parent.

Failing to comply with the relocation statute can result in serious legal consequences, including contempt of court and a modification of custody in the other parent's favor. Here is what every Louisiana parent needs to know.

When Does the Relocation Statute Apply?

Louisiana's relocation law applies when a parent who has custody of a child (or shares custody) proposes to establish a new primary residence that is:

• More than 75 miles from the child's current primary residence within Louisiana; or
• Outside the state of Louisiana, regardless of the distance.

The statute applies whether the move is within Louisiana or out of state. Moving 80 miles away within Louisiana — from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, for example — triggers the relocation notice requirements just as much as moving to Texas or Florida.

The Notice Requirement

A parent who intends to relocate must provide written notice to the other parent at least 60 days before the proposed relocation date. If the relocation is due to an emergency or unforeseen circumstances, notice must be given as soon as possible. The notice must include:

• The intended new address;
• The proposed date of the move;
• A proposed revised custody and visitation schedule; and
• A statement of the specific reasons for the relocation.

How the Other Parent Can Object

Upon receiving notice of a proposed relocation, the non-relocating parent has 30 days to file an objection with the court. If no objection is filed, the relocating parent may proceed with the move. If an objection is filed, the court must hold a hearing to determine whether the relocation should be permitted.

How Courts Decide Relocation Cases

Courts evaluating a proposed relocation must consider the best interest of the child, applying specific factors set out in Louisiana Revised Statute 9:355.14, including:

• The nature, quality, and extent of the child's involvement with each parent;
• The reasons for the relocation and the reasons for the objection;
• The feasibility of preserving the relationship with the non-relocating parent through alternative custody arrangements;
• The child's preference, if the child is of sufficient age and maturity;
• Whether the relocation will enhance the quality of life for the relocating parent and child; and
• The history of each parent's compliance with custody and visitation obligations.

What Happens If a Parent Moves Without Notice?

A parent who relocates a child without providing proper notice and obtaining court approval — or without the other parent's consent — risks being held in contempt of court, having custody modified against them, and being ordered to return the child immediately. Courts in Louisiana take unauthorized relocations very seriously.

The Rhodes Law Firm represents parents on both sides of relocation disputes throughout Southeast Louisiana — including Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles Parish, St. Tammany, and across the state. Whether you are seeking to relocate or opposing a proposed move, we can help you navigate the process.

Call (504) 475-0975 or schedule a free consultation today.