Traveling as a Divorced Parent

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If you loved to travel when you were married, it's likely that you still want to continue to take your children on vacation after your Pasadena divorce. Before you plan a trip, however, there are a few things you should be aware of.

Review the Divorce Judgment carefully to make sure you understand all of the provisions regarding notification of the child's other parent and submission of travel itineraries. Make copies of all documentation you provide your ex in writing, to prevent any last minute holdups that might interfere with your vacation.

In addition to all of the odds and ends that parenting magazines recommend when planning a vacation with your children, it's a good idea to travel with certified copies of your child's birth certificate and your Divorce Judgment as well as a parental consent form signed by the other parent. Keep all of these documents together in your carry-on luggage. If you are flying, the Transportation Security Administration may require proof of parentage for all minor children in your travel party.

If at all possible, your children should have their own passports. A passport is considered the highest form of identification and can facilitate your travel plans even if you do not leave the country. Passports also provide reliable documentation of where your child has traveled, which can be helpful if there is ever a question as to the validity of your travel itinerary. However, a child has to have permission from both parents to apply for a passport unless one parent has sole legal and physical custody.

Even though there are no laws regarding contacting your ex while on vacation, it might be in your child's best interest to allow him or her to call or email if you'll be gone for more than a few days. Young children often become homesick very easily, even if they appear to be having a great time on vacation. A short "check-in" with your child's other parent can also go a long way towards an amicable coparenting arrangement in the future.

If you have questions about the legal ramifications of planning a vacation with your child, your Pasadena divorce attorney can provide additional guidance.

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