Can One Parent Move Away With the Kids? Lessons From Steve Nash’s Arizona Custody Case

Steve Nash and the Arizona Custody Relocation Battle

In 2013, former Phoenix Suns point guard Steve Nash became the center of a high-profile Arizona custody case. The dispute wasn’t about whether he would be involved in his children’s lives — it was about where they would live.

Nash opposed his ex-wife, Alejandra Amarilla, moving their three children to Los Angeles. The case brought Arizona’s relocation laws into the public spotlight and showed just how complicated custody disputes can get — especially when one parent wants to move the kids out of state.

What Arizona Law Says About Relocation

Under A.R.S. § 25-408, a parent who has joint legal decision making or parenting time must give at least 45 days’ written notice before relocating the child:

• More than 100 miles away from the other parent, or
• Out of state, even if the distance is shorter

The other parent can object, and the court will hold a hearing to decide whether the move is in the child’s best interest.

What Courts Consider in Relocation Cases

In relocation disputes like the Nash case, Arizona courts look at factors such as:

✅ The reason for the move
✅ The impact on the child's relationship with the other parent
✅ The child’s stability and adjustment
✅ Whether the move improves the child’s quality of life
✅ Whether the move is made in good faith or to frustrate the other parent's rights

In Nash’s case, the court upheld the custody agreement that prevented relocation — meaning his ex-wife could not move their children from Arizona to California without his agreement or a new court order.

📰 Read more: Arizona Court Accepts Nash Custody Agreement

Key Takeaways for Arizona Parents

The Nash case shows that celebrity or not, Arizona courts take relocation seriously. If you're considering a move — or if your ex is — it’s important to know your rights:

🚫 You can’t just move a child far away without legal notice and court approval
📄 Document everything, including reasons for the move and its impact on the child
⚖️ Expect a hearing if the other parent objects — and be ready to present evidence
👨‍⚖️ The child’s best interest is always the top priority in relocation rulings

Considering a Move? Facing a Custody Dispute? We Can Help.

At Larson Law Office, we represent parents on both sides of relocation disputes. Whether you're trying to move with your child or protect your parenting time, we’ll help you understand your rights and fight for what’s best for your family.

📞 Call 480-459-6080
📅 Book a Consultation
🌐 www.LarsonLawAZ.com