Everyone is always so kind from Casie and Christina at intake, to the paralegals and attorneys. They promptly answer all questions.
When one parent wants or needs to move—whether it’s across the state or across the country—it’s not just a change of address. It’s a potential shift in a child’s entire world.
At Ellis Family Law, we handle relocation cases with the care and clarity they demand. We work with parents to address what the court cares about most: how the move will affect the child’s well-being. Whether you’re hoping to relocate or opposing a proposed move, we help you build a thoughtful, legally sound case rooted in what’s best for your family.
Maybe you’ve received a job offer in another city. Maybe you want to be closer to family. Maybe you’re the parent staying behind, and you’re worried about what a move will mean for your relationship with your child.
Relocation cases are among the most emotional and high-stakes custody disputes. Because when a move changes the parenting dynamic, it doesn’t just affect the parents—it changes everything for the child.
At Ellis Family Law, P.L.L.C. in North Carolina, we represent both parents in child relocation matters. We help you present your position thoughtfully, legally, and with the child’s long-term well-being at the center.
Whether you’re requesting the move or opposing it, our child relocation attorneys will help you build a clear case and protect your role in your child’s life.
In North Carolina, if a custody order is in place, a parent must receive court approval to relocate with a child if the move would:
If you move without permission, the other parent can file a motion, and the court may order the child returned, modify custody, or hold you in contempt.
That’s why legal planning matters—before you move, not after.
The guiding question in any relocation case is simple: Is this move in the child’s best interests?
But answering it is far from simple.
Judges consider:
We help you frame your case around facts, documentation, and a clear story that shows how the move (or staying) supports your child’s well-being.
You may feel:
We help you:
The goal isn’t to “win.” It’s to show that your plan meets your child’s needs—and keeps both parents involved whenever possible.
You may feel:
We help you:
You have a right to be heard. We make sure the court hears more than just logistics—they hear what this child means to you.
We represent parents throughout Durham, Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and the surrounding communities. Whether you’re preparing to request a move or respond to one, we offer practical guidance, strategic preparation, and firm advocacy in and out of court.
We also offer virtual consultations to accommodate parents living at a distance or on tight schedules.
Relocation cases are rarely black-and-white. They involve love, fear, opportunity, and uncertainty.
Whether you’re the one leaving—or the one being left behind—you deserve legal guidance that respects your role, your relationship, and your child’s future.
We’ll help you move forward with strength and strategy—no matter where the path leads.
Everyone is always so kind from Casie and Christina at intake, to the paralegals and attorneys. They promptly answer all questions.
...Everyone is always so kind from Casie and Christina at intake, to the paralegals and attorneys. They promptly answer all questions.
Great experience, Christina is very resourceful and knows what she is doing. Helping me through various obstacles.
...Great experience, Christina is very resourceful and knows what she is doing. Helping me through various obstacles.
Christina is highly knowledgeable and offers excellent service.
...Christina is highly knowledgeable and offers excellent service.
Have been connected to Ellis Family Law for many years and cannot recommend a more knowledgeable, caring, hard working group of attorneys. I do not hesitate to refer to them...
Have been connected to Ellis Family Law for many years and cannot recommend a more knowledgeable, caring, hard working group of attorneys. I do not hesitate to refer to them no matter how big or small the issue. They are truly a one of a kind law firm and am so thankful I can count on their guidance.
Gray is top tier in family law — knowledgeable, strategic, and relentless when it comes to protecting his clients. If you want someone who knows the system and knows how...
Gray is top tier in family law — knowledgeable, strategic, and relentless when it comes to protecting his clients. If you want someone who knows the system and knows how to navigate it successfully, call Ellis Family Law. Amazing Attorneys!
I can’t say enough good things about Ellis Family Law. Going through a family law matter is never easy, but their team made the entire process feel manageable and supported...
I can’t say enough good things about Ellis Family Law. Going through a family law matter is never easy, but their team made the entire process feel manageable and supported from start to finish. They are professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive. I worked with Christina & she was absolutely impeccable and I knew after the first phone call I was in the right place to handle my business. Thank you Ellis Family Law.
We are equally skilled in litigation and in resolving disputes outside of court.
Mediation, arbitration, and collaborative approaches that resolve disputes with less stress and more cooperation.
Thoughtful advocacy for parenting arrangements that protect your children and preserve what matters most.
And for a fun twist: don’t miss our “Pour Decisions” section, featuring wine tips from our lawyer-wine specialist Gray Ellis!
