A custodial parent is generally not permitted to simply leave with any children in their custody, regardless of the reason. In divorce cases where children are involved, there is typically a clause that specifies that a custodial parent may not relocate outside of a given radius or area, must give a certain amount of notice prior to the move and afford the non-custodial parent the right to file a formal objection to or approve the move.
Depending upon the type of child custody arrangements in place, a parent may not move beyond a certain radius or outside state lines without demonstrating a “good faith” reason for the appropriateness of the move and its advantages to the child. Some examples include being hired for a better-paying position, having access to family to assist with childcare obligations or better schools. The non-custodial parent may object and disallow the move.