Photo: Paige Cody / UnsplashCustody basics and changes
- Family and estate
Child Custody Basics: Legal vs. Physical Custody
How courts decide custody, the difference between legal and physical custody and how parenting plans and changes work.
4 min read - Family and estate
Modifying a Child Custody Order: When and How
When courts allow custody or parenting time changes, the substantial change requirement and how to petition.
5 min read - Legal documents
Parenting Plan Guide: What to Include for Co-Parenting
The contents of a parenting plan, schedules, decision-making, communication and holidays, and how to get court approval.
4 min read - Family and estate
Moving Away With a Child: Relocation Rules, Court Approval and Custody Orders
When a parent can relocate with a child after separation or divorce, notice requirements, how courts decide, how to oppose a move, parenting plan changes and what to document.
3 min read - Family and estate
Grandparents' Visitation Rights: When Courts Allow It
How state laws handle grandparent visitation, the constitutional rights of parents and what grandparents can do to seek contact.
3 min read
Support and parentage
- Family and estate
Child Support Enforcement: What to Do When Payments Stop and What Courts Can Do
How child support is enforced when a parent stops paying: state agencies, wage withholding, license suspension, tax refund intercepts, contempt, modification requests and tips for both sides.
3 min read - Family and estate
Establishing Paternity: How Legal Fatherhood Works
How paternity is established through acknowledgment, genetic testing or court order and why it matters for custody, support and benefits.
4 min read - Family and estate
Power of Attorney for a Child: Letting Someone Else Make Decisions
How a temporary power of attorney for a minor works, what it can cover, how it differs from guardianship and its limits.
3 min read - Legal documents
Child Travel Consent Forms: When You Need One
When a parent or guardian should have written permission to travel with a child, and what a consent letter should include.
3 min read
Adoption and getting help
- Family and estate
Stepparent Adoption: Steps and Requirements
How a stepparent can legally adopt a stepchild, consent requirements, the court process and effects on the other parent.
2 min read - Family and estate
The Adoption Process: Types and Basic Steps
An overview of agency, private, foster care, stepparent and international adoption, plus home studies and finalization.
4 min read - Family and estate
Legal Aid for Divorce and Child Custody: How to Get Free or Low-Cost Help
How to get free or low-cost legal help with divorce, custody and child support, including legal aid priorities, court self-help centers and limited-scope lawyers.
4 min read - Legal documents
Separation Agreements: Settling Issues Before or During Divorce
What a separation agreement covers, how it differs from a divorce decree and when couples use one.
3 min read
Frequently asked questions
How do courts decide custody?
By the best interests of the child, looking at stability, each parent's role and the child's needs.
Can child support be changed?
Yes, when there is a significant change in circumstances, but usually only from the date you file.
What if the other parent stops paying support?
Contact the state child support agency or file a motion to enforce.
Can I move with my child?
Often only with notice or court approval if there is a custody order.
Can I get free help?
Legal aid and court self-help centers may assist.