What should a proposed parenting plan in a relocation case include?

Under the Divorce Act, a parent who gives notice of a proposed relocation must include a proposed parenting plan as part of that notice. Courts and the other parent will scrutinize this plan carefully — a vague or unrealistic proposal weakens a relocation case significantly.

A strong proposed parenting plan for a relocation application should include: a detailed revised schedule showing how the child will spend time with the non-moving parent (including during school holidays, summer, and statutory holidays); a specific proposal for who covers travel costs and how transportation will be arranged; a communication plan covering virtual parenting time between visits; and how the child's existing school, medical, and extracurricular arrangements will be managed.

The plan needs to be genuinely workable, not aspirational. Courts are not persuaded by a plan that promises frequent visits but fails to account for costs, distance, or the child's school schedule. Show that you have thought concretely about how the non-moving parent can maintain a meaningful relationship with the child.

A relocation application without a credible parenting plan is a significant procedural and strategic weakness. Engage a family lawyer before filing to ensure your proposed plan addresses the key factors the court will examine.