Currently, Nebraska has no statute to guide, define, or regulate the process of moving out-of-state after a divorce. And Nebraska's district courts give these cases the lowest possible priority, because they are so difficult to rule on. As a result, the process is full of delays, uncertainty, and subjective process. As a custodial parent, it is nearly impossible to make a move out of state if the non-custodial parent opposes.

How can a custodial parent accept a job offer out-of-state when the court process takes 4-6 months to complete and there are no guidelines other than previous case history?

As a custodial parent, living in Nebraska, I have tried to accept an employment position in Kansas City, and have been unable to move after two attempts. The court agreed that I had a legitimate reason (employment opportunity) to request the move and that it would benefit the children. However, with no statutory guidelines, my case took 11 months to try and resulted in denial. The process is unduly stressful on families, and financially devastating. We need legislation to define the parameters for a reasonable petition so that custodial and non-custodial parents can pursue employment and life opportunities with minimal stress and clear guidelines.