Pennsylvania
Can I move with my child in Pennsylvania?
Quick answer
In Pennsylvania, a relocation is a change in a child’s residence that significantly impairs the other party’s ability to exercise custodial rights. No relocation may occur unless every individual with custody rights consents or the court approves it (23 Pa.C.S. § 5337(b)).
Researched by Dan Martin, Legal Researcher · Published by Onbello Legal · Last updated October 2026
Notice
The party proposing the move notifies every other individual with custody rights by certified mail, return receipt requested, no later than the 60th day before the move, or no later than the 10th day after learning of it if 60 days’ notice was not reasonably possible and the move cannot reasonably be delayed (§ 5337(c)(2)). The notice includes the new address, the school, the reasons, a proposed revised schedule, and a counter-affidavit (§ 5337(c)(3)).
Objecting
The other party has 30 days from receipt to object with the counter-affidavit (§ 5337(d); Pa.R.Civ.P. 1915.17(b)). If notice was properly given and no objection is filed, the nonrelocating party is presumed to consent (§ 5337(d)(3)).
The hearing
After a timely objection, the court must hold an expedited full hearing before the move, unless it finds exigent circumstances (§ 5337(g)). It weighs ten factors, giving weighted consideration to those affecting the child’s safety, and the moving party has the burden of showing the move serves the child’s best interest (§ 5337(h) and (i)).
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.