🚗 Can My Ex Take My Kid Out of State Without Telling Me?
Why Michigan’s 100-Mile Rule Trips Up So Many Parents
Co-parenting is already enough of a juggling act—school schedules, sports practices, holidays. But what happens when one parent decides to move, especially out of state?
In Michigan, this isn’t a “just pack the boxes and go” situation. It’s a legal issue. And if you skip the process, the consequences can be huge.
📏 Michigan’s 100-Mile Rule
If you share joint legal custody of your child, you can’t move more than 100 miles from your current residence without:
The other parent’s written consent, or
A court order approving the move.
This isn’t just for out-of-state moves. It applies even if you’re staying in Michigan. And yes—the court will measure that mileage.
🚫 What Happens If You Move Without Permission?
You could be ordered back to your original residence.
Your custody arrangement could be changed.
The court could hold you in contempt.
You risk losing parenting time.
In other words: this can blow up your custody situation—fast.
✅ How to Get Court Approval
If your ex won’t agree, you’ll need to file a motion asking the court for permission to move. The judge will look at things like:
Whether the move improves your and your child’s quality of life
Your motives for moving (or staying)
How the move will affect parenting time
The likelihood of preserving the parent-child relationship
📌 The Bottom Line
In Michigan, a big move with your child is not just a personal decision—it’s a legal one. Always check your custody order and the 100-mile rule before you start packing.