If you are in the process, or about to begin the process, of filing for child custody, you need to know some of the common child custody forms that you need to fill out. Now, every state has different laws about custody, so the forms are all individual to the states as well. However, there are some general custody forms that every state has. Here are some of the child custody papers that you’ll find in almost every state (the paper may have a different name in your state, but the function will most likely be similar).
Summons and Petition for Custody: This is the form that the parent initiating the child custody process fills out. This paper starts the custody case and is served to the other parent. After the paper is filed and served, the other parent has a chance to respond. Along with this paper usually comes a restraining order that prohibits both parents from leaving the state with the child.
Response to the Petition: This is the form filled out by the other parent when they are served the summons and petition for custody. The parent needs to respond within a certain amount of time, or the court automatically grants the other parent custody.
Custody Agreement Papers: Depending on where you live, you will need to fill out multiple child custody forms about the custody agreement. This usually includes papers where you outline the repeating custody and visitation schedule, the holiday schedule, the type of custody, etc. Some states have you fill out one set of papers if you and the other parent agree on the parenting plan and a different set if you disagree.
Child Support Information: One parent usually files for child support and both parents are required to fill out papers that outline their financial information. The states require different things, but be prepared to show how much money you make, the amount you pay for insurance, other debts and obligations, etc.
There are fees to file your child custody forms at the courthouse. If you can’t pay these fees, you can fill out a paper to have them waived.
These are the broad papers that pretty much everyone has to fill out. You can find more information about your specific state custody forms by contacting the courthouse, an attorney, or looking online.