Joint custody means joint decisions
With joint custody, parents must decide together on matters concerning the child's personal affairs. The rules are found in Chapter 6 of the Swedish Children and Parents Code (föräldrabalken).
A move that means the child changes preschool or school, or that creates a long distance to the other parent, is generally a decision both guardians should agree on.
What does a move affect?
How much a move matters depends, among other things, on the distance and on the child's everyday life today. It often affects:
- the child's school or preschool
- the child's contact with the other parent
- the child's friends and activities
- travel and costs for contact
If you disagree
If parents cannot agree on a move, they can get help from the family law unit (familjerätten) in their municipality, for example through cooperation talks.
If agreement is still not possible, the question of where the child should live can be decided by the district court. The court always starts from the child's best interests, including the child's need for close and good contact with both parents.
Before you move
Try to talk to the other parent in good time and listen to the child according to their age and maturity. Consider how contact can work after the move and try to reach a written agreement.
Moving with the child without the other parent's consent may matter if the question is later decided in court.
Getting help
Every family's situation is different. Advokat Kurage can help you review what applies in your case before you decide on a move.