Relocating With a Child After Divorce in Tulsa

Relocating with a child after divorce in Tulsa requires consideration of multiple factors beyond personal preference. Oklahoma law imposes procedural and substantive requirements on a parent’s ability to move with a child, particularly when the move would affect the other parent’s rights.

Familiarity with the legal standards governing a request to relocate with a child can help a parent determine whether court approval is necessary before making moving plans.

Hire a Relocation Lawyer

The Tulsa family law attorneys at Bundy Law handles post-divorce relocation cases, as well as modifications of custody and contested parenting plans for parents. Aaron Bundy is the first and only Oklahoma attorney to be admitted to the International Academy of Family Lawyers and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Experience with high-conflict custody cases provides a unique perspective and strategic planning for relocation issues.

When Relocation Triggers Legal Notice Requirements

Moving with a child after divorce may also involve formal notice requirements under Oklahoma law. For example, a parent may be required to provide notice to the other parent before relocating, particularly if the relocation affects custody or parenting time. Scenarios that often trigger notice include: 

• Move the child’s primary residence 75 miles or more from the current location, or out of state
• Interfere with court-ordered visitation or parenting time schedules
• Significantly alter the child’s established routine, schooling, or daily care

Failure to comply with notice requirements can lead to legal complications. Courts may view unauthorized relocation as disruptive to the child’s stability and in conflict with existing custody orders.

How Tulsa Courts Evaluate Relocation Requests

Relocation requests involving children are heard through the Tulsa County District Court. Judges in Tulsa are concerned with whether the proposed relocation is in the child’s best interests rather than the preferences of the relocating parent.

Courts have examined the reason for the move, the likelihood of maintaining a meaningful relationship with the nonmoving parent, and the impact the move will have on the child’s day-to-day life. Judges are also tasked with weighing whether the relocation is being done in good faith or would unreasonably disrupt an existing custody arrangement.

How Often Do Post-Divorce Relocation Issues Arise?

Relocation is a common topic in family courts. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that 8.2 million Americans changed residence across state lines in 2022. Relocation is common in our country, even after divorce.

If two divorced parents have a custody order, simple moves can present legal issues. A move that interferes with parenting time and custodial rights may require court involvement. When parental moves are at stake, the law must still protect the best interests of the child in Oklahoma.

Common Reasons Parents Seek to Relocate After Divorce

Parents may want to relocate for many reasons, some more compelling than others. While relocation itself is not prohibited, courts closely examine whether the move benefits the child.

Generally, the parent seeking relocation has the burden of proving that the move warrants a change to the parenting plan. These include, but are not limited to: 

• Job or employment reasons/career advancement
• Child’s educational needs
• Nearness to family or support network
• Change in housing/financial status

FAQs

Can a Parent Relocate With a Child Without the Other Parent’s Consent?

If there is an existing custody order, a parent cannot just move with a child without the consent of the other parent. A move may also trigger statutory notice requirements or court review if it interferes with parenting time or custody rights, even when the other parent’s permission is not required. A parent may need to obtain court approval if a move interferes with the other parent’s parenting time or custody rights to avoid violating an existing order.

What Happens if a Parent Moves Without Giving Proper Notice?

If a parent moves without providing adequate notice, the move may be considered in violation of the custody orders. The court may intervene, or either parent may request a modification of the custody order or enforcement actions. Noncompliance with notice requirements can also weaken a parent’s case in future custody or relocation disputes.

Does the Tulsa County Court Handle Relocation Disputes Differently?

Relocation disputes in Tulsa are heard in the Tulsa County District Court. The Tulsa County District Court has jurisdiction over relocation cases filed in Tulsa, OK, and will apply Oklahoma’s relocation laws throughout the State.

Although the underlying legal standards remain the same, local court rules and procedures may affect scheduling, hearings, and the presentation of evidence. Local filing practices are relevant to navigating a relocation dispute in Tulsa.

How Many Oklahoma Families Are Impacted by Post-Divorce Parenting Issues?

Post-divorce parenting problems impact significant populations of Oklahoma families. One report, shared with KTUL News, shows that during 2025, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Child Support Services collected over $303 million in child support and provided services to an estimated 166,025 children across the state.

These numbers reflect how common court-ordered parenting plans are and why relocation disputes often end up in court.

Can Relocation Requests Be Denied Even for Valid Personal Reasons?

Requests for relocation may be denied even if a parent has good personal reasons for wanting to move. The custodial parent’s wishes are not the court’s primary concern. A new job, family assistance, or housing situation may be appropriate factors for consideration, but the court will always evaluate how the move impacts stability, parenting time, and the child’s relationship with both parents before allowing a relocation.

Contact a Tulsa Relocation Lawyer

Divorce relocation disputes can carry high stakes for parents if the proposed move affects custody or parenting time. Understanding Oklahoma’s relocation laws and how a judge is likely to view your request can help before you select a new job or place to live.

Parents in Tulsa have come to the experienced lawyers at Bundy Law for relocation cases, custody modifications, and contested post-decree matters. A private consultation can help you understand the risks of relocation and your need to provide proper notice, if applicable.

When you work with a relocation attorney at our firm, we can help you present your request before the judge. If you are considering a move after divorce, a Tulsa custody and relocation lawyer can help you evaluate your options and protect your parental rights and your child’s stability. Schedule a consultation today.