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Sherman Oaks Move Away Attorney

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After a divorce, life continues to evolve, and new opportunities may arise for one or both parents. A job change, remarriage, access to better schools, or being closer to extended family can lead to a desire to relocate. 

However, when minor children are involved, moving away with the child can cause strong emotions and often conflict. When a parent moves away, it can disrupt the bond between the children and the non-relocating parent. 

At Diarian & Bociaga, our dedicated family law attorneys in Sherman Oaks are experienced in guiding clients through these relocation issues. Whether you are the parent seeking to relocate with your children to pursue new prospects or are the parent trying to maintain the existing custodial arrangement, we are prepared to advocate aggressively on your behalf. Contact us by calling (818) 205-9090.

 

Meet Your Sherman Oaks Divorce Attorneys

Aree S. Diarian

Founding Attorney Aree S. Diarian

Aree Diarian is a compassionate and skilled family law attorney serving the Sherman Oaks area. She has successfully handled a wide range of family law matters, including child custody and support, spousal support, property division (including community businesses), restraining orders, and post-judgment modifications. Ms. Diarian is known for her ability to guide clients through complex legal situations with both strength and empathy. Clients trust Ms. Diarian to be a powerful advocate during the difficult process of divorce or family conflict. She is committed to protecting her clients’ rights and helping them move forward with confidence, whether through negotiation or litigation. Her proven record reflects her dedication to achieving positive outcomes and securing her clients’ well-being.
Lauren Bociaga

Founding Attorney Lauren Bociaga

Lauren Bociaga is a Certified Family Law Specialist with a practice focused almost entirely on family law. Recognized by the State Bar of California for her experience and knowledge, she represents clients in challenging cases involving custody disputes, abuse, parental alienation, hidden assets, and complex financial issues. She has extensive courtroom and negotiation experience throughout California. Ms. Bociaga is known for her strategic approach and strong advocacy. She prepares each case with great care and uses her legal skills and insight to pursue the best outcome—whether through tough negotiations or trial. Her commitment to her clients and deep understanding of family dynamics make her a trusted and effective legal ally.

Call Our Experienced Sherman Oaks Move Away Attorneys Today

When relocation impacts custody, you need strong legal guidance to protect your rights and your child’s best interests. Call Diarian & Bociaga at (818) 205-9090 for a private consultation. We’re here to support you and help you find the best path forward.

The Role of Custody

Under California law, a parent with sole physical custody has a presumptive right to relocate with their children, subject to certain limitations. The court can intervene to prevent a move that would be detrimental to the children’s rights or wellbeing. In fact, a California custodial parent does not need to demonstrate the necessity for the relocation, if the move is made in good faith. 

The non-custodial parent can challenge the proposed relocation by seeking a custody modification. To do so, they must show that there has been a substantial change in circumstances that necessitates a custody change for the children’s welfare. Additionally, the non-custodial parent bears the burden of proving that the relocation would be detrimental to the children. 

If the parents share joint legal custody, the situation is somewhat different. In such cases, the court must evaluate the proposed relocation anew, without favoring either parent’s position. The court’s primary consideration is determining the custody arrangement that serves the child’s best interests. A Sherman Oaks child custody attorney can assist you with these complications.

Other California Relocation Considerations

The court’s primary concern is determining the course of action that best serves the children’s interests. During a hearing, the court will carefully consider the non-relocating parent’s objections to the proposed relocation considering what is truly in the children’s best interests. Relevant factors may include:

  • The distance of the proposed relocation
  • The ages of the children
  • The strength of the children’s relationships with each parent
  • The importance of maintaining stability and continuity in the existing custodial arrangement
  • The extent to which the parents currently share custody responsibilities
  • The amount of time each parent dedicates to the children and contributes to parenting duties
  • The parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate effectively to support their children’s well-being
  • The motivations behind the proposed relocation
  • The children’s preferences, if they are mature enough for their input to be considered

Testimonials

“Best family law firm in LA.”

5-star rating

They’re skilled, compassionate, and truly committed to their clients. I felt supported and well-informed throughout the entire process. Look no further. 10/10 highly recommend!

— Caroline A.


“My attorney, Lauren, is amazing.”

5-star rating

She has been extremely stable and reassuring in her handling of my case, quick to reply to my correspondences, and highly effective in working with opposing counsel. I’m always impressed with her knowledge of the law and her ability to make it understandable. More times than I can count, I’ve felt I didn’t know what I would have done without Lauren. I can’t recommend her highly enough.

— Aaron J.


“Super friendly and informative”

5-star rating

I had a long, arduous divorce but they helped me every step of the way!

— G. Letamendi

Areas Our Sherman Oaks Divorce Lawyers Serve

Our Sherman Oaks divorce litigation lawyers proudly serve the following neighborhoods:

Downtown Los Angeles | Hollywood | West Hollywood | Beverly Hills | Santa Monica | Venice | Malibu | Pasadena | Long Beach | Glendale | Burbank | Culver City | Westwood | Silver Lake | Echo Park | Koreatown | San Pedro | West Los Angeles | Boyle Heights | Eagle Rock | Sherman Oaks | North Hollywood | Encino | Studio City | Bel Air | Pacific Palisades | West Los Angeles | Highland Park | Manhattan Beach

Contact Our Sherman Oaks Move Away Attorneys Today

In most cases, an approved relocation will necessitate modifications to the existing visitation plan. Likewise, if a proposed relocation is denied and the parent still intends to move without the children, a modification to the child custody and visitation arrangement may be warranted. Our experienced Sherman Oaks move away attorneys are well-versed in navigating these complex issues and will work tirelessly to protect your parental rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your children. Contact us today to discuss your relocation case.