Hello. My name is Andres Sanchez, and I am an attorney with 18 years of experience. How are you?

I'm good. Thanks.

Here’s what you (or your ex) must do under Indiana law when relocating about 45 minutes away (more than 20 miles) with children under a custody/parenting-time order:

Notice of Intent to Relocate

When: File at least 30 days before the move—or no more than 14 days after learning of it—whichever comes first

Where: Submit the notice to the clerk in the court that issued your current custody or parenting-time order

Serve: Send a copy by registered or certified mail to the other parent

Contents must include:

• New address (physical + mailing if different)
• All phone numbers
• Date of intended move
• Brief, good‑faith reason for moving
• Whether you think a revised parenting time schedule is needed
• A statement that the other parent has a 20-day window to respond or file an objection
• Mention that the non-moving parent may petition for custody, parenting time, grandparent visitation, or child‑support modifications
• A note that current orders remain in force until the court modifies them

Objection Window

The non-moving parent (or grandparent) has 20 days from service to respond or object by filing a motion with the court

If no objection is filed within that window, the move is typically allowed as long as notice was timely and correctly given

Relocation Hearing (if contested)

If an objection is filed:

• Hearing is scheduled to determine whether the move is in the children's best interests
• Relocating parent must show the move is sincere, in good faith, and for legitimate reasons (e.g. job, housing, family)
• Non-relocating parent must show the move is not in the child’s best interests, typically due to significant reduction in parenting time, hardship, or disruption
• Court considers factors under IC 31‑17‑2.2‑1(c), including:
  • distance of move
  • hardship and expense for non-moving parent
  • ability to maintain relationship with children
  • pattern of encouraging or discouraging contact
  • respective reasons
  • other best interest factors

Outcome: Court may approve (with or without parenting-time modifications), deny, or adjust custody/visitation orders accordingly

Petition to Modify Custody or Parenting Time

Whether contested or not, you (or your ex) can file a petition to modify custody, parenting time, or support if the move substantially affects the current arrangement

The court may consider a change in those orders if warranted.

You're welcome. I hope everything works out for you.

Thank you.