Move Away Custody Lawyer Manassas, VA

When a parent in Manassas or Manassas Park wishes to relocate with their child—whether for a new job, family support, or a fresh start—and the other parent objects, the dispute becomes a “move away” custody case. Virginia law requires the relocating parent to give advance written notice and obtain court approval if the other parent does not consent. These cases are heard in the Circuit Court or Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for the 31st Judicial District, located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents parents on both sides of relocation disputes. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the firm’s Owner and Founder, has practiced family law since 1997, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience to these sensitive matters. To discuss your relocation matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

On this page

What Move Away Custody Means in Manassas

Virginia treats child relocation as a custody determination governed by the best interests of the child. Under Va. Code § 20-124.3, the court considers ten statutory factors, including each parent’s role in the child’s life, the child’s relationship with siblings and extended family, the reason for the proposed move, and the feasibility of the non‑moving parent maintaining a meaningful relationship. There is no presumption for or against relocation; the court evaluates the actual impact on the child.

Virginia law requires a parent intending to relocate to provide at least 30 days’ advance written notice to the court and the other party.

Source: Va. Code § 20-124.5. Virginia Code § 20-124.5

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

When a parent who is subject to an existing custody or visitation order fails to comply with the notice requirement—or moves over the other parent’s objection without court approval—the court may address the violation through its contempt powers and consider the relocation when modifying custody. The Manassas Circuit Court, part of the 31st Judicial Circuit, hears all contested relocation matters and has the authority to adjust custody, parenting time, and support obligations to reflect the new circumstances. The same courthouse at 9311 Lee Avenue serves both Manassas City and Manassas Park City residents. Because these cases are intensely fact‑specific, having an attorney who understands the local court’s expectations is important.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Move Away Custody Cases

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys approach relocation disputes by first gathering a clear picture of the proposed move: the distance, the reason, the child’s educational and social opportunities at the new location, and the realistic impact on the child’s relationship with the non‑moving parent. They evaluate each factor under Va. Code § 20-124.3 and build a record that addresses the court’s central concern—whether the move serves the child’s best interests. When agreement is possible, the firm works to negotiate a modified parenting plan that both parents can accept; when litigation is necessary, the firm’s attorneys present evidence through witness testimony, school records, and, where appropriate, custody evaluations.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to relocation matters. Results may vary. Because the court retains broad discretion, the firm focuses on thorough preparation and a clear presentation of how the proposed move—or the objection to it—aligns with the child’s wellbeing. The firm’s Fairfax Location represents parents at the Manassas courts, and clients can schedule a consultation by calling (888) 437-7747.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., a multi‑state firm that has been practicing since 1997. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced family law practitioners who handle custody and relocation cases throughout Northern Virginia. They work collaboratively with Mr. Sris on each matter, drawing on the firm’s collective knowledge of Virginia custody law and the procedures in the Manassas courts. The firm’s Fairfax Location serves clients in Manassas, Manassas Park, and the surrounding communities. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “move away” custody case in Virginia?

A move away custody case arises when one parent wants to relocate with the child and the other parent refuses to consent. Under Va. Code § 20-124.5, the relocating parent must give at least 30 days’ written notice to the court and the other parent. If the non‑moving parent files an objection, the court holds a hearing to decide whether the relocation may proceed and, if so, what changes to custody and visitation are appropriate. These cases are heard in the Circuit Court or, for standalone custody matters, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

What factors does a Virginia court consider in a relocation case?

The court applies the ten best‑interests factors listed in Va. Code § 20-124.3. These include the child’s age and health, the bond with each parent, the reason for the proposed move, the distance, the feasibility of maintaining a relationship with the non‑moving parent, and the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community. The court may also weigh the impact on extended family and the child’s own preference, if the child is of suitable age and maturity. No single factor controls; the judge balances all relevant considerations.

Do I need the other parent’s permission to move with my child?

You must provide the other parent at least 30 days’ advance written notice, but you do not need the other parent’s affirmative permission if you obtain a court order. If the other parent agrees in writing, the court will often approve a modified custody and visitation schedule by agreement. If the other parent objects, you must file a motion with the court and present evidence showing that the relocation serves the child’s best interests. Moving without complying with the notice requirement may expose you to contempt or an adverse custody modification.

How does a Manassas court determine whether a move is in the child’s best interests?

The Manassas Circuit Court evaluates the same statutory factors as any other Virginia court but will also consider the practical effect of the move on the existing custody and visitation order. The judge may examine the distance, the reason for the move (such as employment, remarriage, or family support), the child’s educational and healthcare options at the new location, and the ability of the non‑moving parent to maintain regular contact. The court may order a custody evaluation or appoint a guardian ad litem to assist in the inquiry. Because the court’s focus is on the child’s stability, a well‑prepared presentation of the facts is important.

Can a lawyer help me oppose a relocation?

Yes, an experienced family law attorney can help you challenge a proposed relocation by presenting evidence and cross‑examining witnesses at a hearing. The non‑moving parent may present testimony about the child’s established relationships in Manassas, the quality of local schools and support systems, and any concerns about the other parent’s motivations. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent parents who wish to keep their child in the Manassas area and advocate for custody and visitation arrangements that preserve the parent‑child relationship. To discuss your options, call (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I am considering relocating with my child?

Before making any plans to relocate, consult an attorney who practices in Virginia custody law. A lawyer can help you evaluate the likelihood of obtaining court approval, identify the evidence you will need, and ensure you comply with the notice provisions of Va. Code § 20-124.5. Taking legal advice early may prevent a contempt finding and strengthen your position if a hearing becomes necessary. For guidance on your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Our family law practice also serves parents in nearby communities:

Official Resources

For the full text of the statutes governing child custody and relocation, visit the Virginia Law Library: Va. Code § 20-124.3 (best interests factors) and Va. Code § 20-124.5 (notice of relocation). Information about the Circuit Court that handles Manassas family law matters can be found at Virginia’s Judicial System.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.