Georgia
Can I move with my child in Georgia?
Quick answer
Except where a court order provides otherwise, a Georgia parent who changes residence must notify the other parent at least 30 days before the anticipated move, including the full address of the new residence (O.C.G.A. § 19-9-3(f)(3)). If the parent moving is the custodial parent, notice also goes to any other person granted visitation rights or parenting time.
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
What the statute covers
The court that entered a custody judgment keeps jurisdiction to order the custodial parent to notify the court of changes in the child’s residence (§ 19-9-3(f)(1)). If the court has ordered notice of a change in the pickup and delivery address for visitation or parenting time, the custodial parent must give the noncustodial parent written notice of the new location (§ 19-9-3(f)(2)).
If the other parent objects
Beyond the 30-day notice, Georgia’s custody statute does not set out a separate procedure for approving a move. A parent who believes a move calls for a different custody arrangement can file a complaint for change of custody, which is decided on a showing of a material change in conditions or circumstances and the child’s best interests (§ 19-9-3(b) and (a)(2)). Your current order and parenting plan may also contain their own terms about moves, so read them first.
Support
If court-ordered parenting time travel expenses are substantial because of the distance between the parents, the court may allocate them as a deviation from presumptive child support, considering which parent moved and why (§ 19-6-15(i)(2)(E)).
Tools and resources
Where to check this
Forms, deadlines, and local rules change. Verify anything on this page against the official self-help resources for your state before you rely on it.
This page is general legal information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Laws and local rules vary and change. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed family-law attorney in your state.