Tampa Family Relocation Attorney
Child Relocation Lawyer Serving Tampa and Hillsborough County
A family relocation attorney in Tampa handles one of the most disruptive situations in post-divorce family life — when one parent wants to move away with a shared child. Florida’s relocation law is strict, with specific deadlines and court requirements. Mindy Lasley, P.A. handles child relocation cases throughout Tampa and Hillsborough County, representing both parents seeking to relocate and parents fighting to prevent a move that would separate them from their children.
Mindy has worked on both sides of relocation cases — helping a parent who received a legitimate job offer three states away build the strongest possible case for the move, and helping another parent file an emergency objection when a co-parent tried to move without notice. These cases are urgent and the deadlines are real. Waiting costs you leverage.
Florida’s Relocation Law — What It Requires
Florida Statute 61.13001 governs parental relocation. The law applies when a parent with time-sharing wants to move more than 50 miles from the child’s current principal residence for more than 60 consecutive days.
Before relocating, the parent must either:
- Obtain written agreement from all parties with time-sharing — signed and notarized — specifying the new location, updated time-sharing schedule, and transportation arrangements, or
- File a Petition to Relocate with the court and obtain court approval before moving
Moving without consent or a court order is a violation of the parenting plan. Florida courts treat unauthorized relocation seriously and often order the child returned immediately.
What Courts Consider When Evaluating a Relocation Petition
| Factor | What Courts Look At |
|---|---|
| Reason for the move | Career opportunity, family support, health, or personal preference — all are weighed differently |
| Impact on the child’s relationship with the remaining parent | How the move would affect the frequency and quality of contact |
| Feasibility of preserving the relationship | Whether a modified schedule and transportation arrangement can maintain a meaningful relationship |
| Child’s preference | Considered based on the child’s age and maturity |
| Quality of life | Educational opportunities, community ties, and stability in both locations |
| Overall impact on the child | Friends, activities, extended family connections, and daily routine |
Opposing a Relocation Petition
A parent who receives a relocation notice has 20 days to file a written objection. Once an objection is filed, the relocating parent must obtain court approval before moving with the child.
Mindy Lasley, P.A. files timely, detailed objections and prepares clients for contested relocation hearings in Hillsborough County family court — presenting evidence on every factor the court must consider.
Emergency Relief for Unauthorized Relocation
When a parent moves with a child without consent or a court order, emergency relief is available. Mindy files emergency motions in Hillsborough County family court requesting immediate return of the child and interim injunctive relief — acting on an urgent timeline when the situation demands it.
Related Practice Areas
- Child Custody Lawyer Tampa
- Tampa Parenting Plan Lawyer
- Modification Lawyer Tampa
- Tampa Divorce Attorney
- Paternity Lawyer Tampa
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does the 50-mile rule apply if I’m moving within Tampa Bay? | If the move is less than 50 miles from the child’s current principal residence, Florida’s relocation statute does not apply — though a significant move may still warrant a parenting plan modification. |
| What if I move first and ask for permission later? | Courts view unauthorized relocation very negatively. The child may be ordered back, and the relocating parent’s credibility in the case is seriously damaged. |
| Can both parents agree to the relocation without going to court? | Yes — a written, notarized agreement that meets the requirements of Florida Statute 61.13001 allows relocation without a court hearing. |
| What if the relocation is for a job opportunity? | Career opportunity is a relevant factor, but it does not automatically outweigh the impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent. Courts balance all factors. |
| How quickly can a relocation hearing be scheduled? | Hillsborough County family court treats contested relocation with urgency. Hearings are typically scheduled within 30–60 days of the objection being filed. |
| Can a relocation order be modified if circumstances change? | Yes. If the basis for the relocation changes significantly, either parent can file for a modification of the existing relocation order. |
Local Resources for Relocation Cases in Hillsborough County
| Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Florida Statute 61.13001 | Florida’s parental relocation statute — complete legal requirements |
| Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court | Hillsborough County family court — relocation petition procedures |
| Hillsborough County Clerk of Court | File relocation petitions and objections |
| Florida Bar — Child Custody Guide | Overview of Florida custody and relocation law |
Relocation Cases Move Fast — So Should You
Whether you are planning to relocate or fighting to stop it, Florida’s relocation law has tight deadlines. Mindy Lasley, P.A. is a family relocation attorney in Tampa who moves quickly in relocation cases throughout Hillsborough County — protecting your parenting rights with the urgency the situation demands. Call (813) 873-9047 or reach us through our contact page today.
About Mindy Lasley, P.A.
Mindy Lasley, P.A. is a Tampa family law firm handling child relocation petitions, objections, and emergency relief throughout Hillsborough County. The firm represents both relocating parents and those opposing moves — advocating for outcomes that protect each child’s relationship with both parents. Located at 1005 N Marion St, Tampa, FL 33602.