Relocation Order Lawyers Maroochydore
Maybe you’re the one hoping to move on after separation. Maybe you’ve just found out your ex wants to take your child somewhere else entirely. Either way, Shanahan Family Law helps parents on both sides of a relocation dispute work out arrangements that protect the interests of the child and your relationship with them.
How We Help with a Relocation Order
A parent’s relocation with a child isn’t automatic under the Family Law Act 1975, even for the primary caregiver. Where parents hold sole parental responsibility or share decision-making under existing parenting arrangements, the starting point is agreement between both parents, or a court order permitting the move.
Local Legal Presence
Sunshine Coast prompt and personalised attention.
Advice on whether your proposed move needs court approval
Preparing and filing relocation order applications, including evidence on schooling and family support
Responding to a relocation application from the other parent
Urgent and interim applications when a move by one parent is imminent
Negotiating through family dispute resolution before things reach court
Drafting and finalising consent orders once agreement is reached
Court Considerations & Child Interests
The court weighs the interests of the child above either parent’s personal preference. That means looking at the child’s relationship with both parents, their own views, the effect on schooling, and community ties.
Family violence history and psychological harm are factors the family law courts take seriously. In complex proceedings, the court may appoint an Independent Children’s Lawyer.
“We know how urgent these matters can feel, and we act quickly when a move is imminent.”
Unapproved Moves & Recovery Orders
Already Moved?
If your child has already been relocated without your consent, we can help with recovery orders and other urgent remedies. Taking a child overseas without consent can be a criminal offence — up to three years’ imprisonment.
International Concerns
You can ask the court to stop a child leaving Australia via the Family Law Watchlist. Australia is also a signatory to the Hague Convention to recover children wrongfully taken internationally.
Why Talk to Us
- Local Sunshine Coast presence, prompt and personalised attention
- Ready to move on urgent and interim applications
- Free discovery call, no obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Often within days — we prioritise urgent matters and can file interim applications fast to protect existing parenting arrangements.
If you share parental responsibility, the other parent generally needs your agreement or a court order first. We can help you seek an urgent order restricting the move until a final hearing.
We’ll formalise it through consent orders or a parenting plan, so both of you have certainty.
Usually yes, especially with existing parenting orders or shared decision-making arrangements in place. We can advise on your specific circumstances.
Professional legal services for complex personal transitions. Providing compassionate authority for Sunshine Coast families.
© 2024 Shanahan Family Law. All rights reserved. Professional legal services for complex personal transitions.
Legal Disclaimer: This page provides general information only. It is not legal advice. Family law outcomes depend on your circumstances. You should speak with a family lawyer before making decisions about your matter.