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Child Custody Laws - Statutes For All 50 States
Each state has different child custody laws. Some states presume that parents have joint custody. while other states do not. In addition, some states presume that in the case of unmarried parents, the mother automatically has custody, while others expect single mothers to file for custody, even if the father is not involved. Click on the name of your state below to learn more about the child custody laws in your jurisdiction.
Understand Your State s Child Custody Laws
As a single parent. it is your responsibility to become familiar with the child custody laws in your state, even if you re working with a lawyer.
Use the link for each state (above) to access a detailed summary of the child custody laws for each state.
At the end of each summary, you ll find a link to the state s online copy of their current child custody laws.
Read through the statutes and make a list of questions about anything you do not understand.
Get Free Legal Help for Your Child Custody Case
Even if you decide to represent yourself in court, you ll want to discuss the child custody laws in your state with a qualified attorney. Fortunately, free legal help is available for those who qualify.
Contact Legal Aid in your state.
Contact local law schools to inquire about free legal clinics.
If you are a victim of domestic violence. contact a local shelter to inquire about legal assistance.
Schedule a free consultation with a qualified child custody attorney in your state.
Find a lawyer that you trust. Winning a child custody case is about a lot more than understanding child custody laws. It s also imperative that you feel comfortable with your lawyer and feel that he or she is fairly representing you.
Do your homework. Participate actively in your case by doing as much research as you can, taking the action steps recommended by your lawyer, and thoroughly preparing for your child custody hearing .
Do nothing to aggravate the case against you. Be mindful that your ex s lawyer may be looking for information to use against you, so be sure to conduct yourself responsibly and avoid ugly confrontations with your ex.