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Navigating child custody can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking joint custody, sole custody, or modifying an existing order, understanding your rights is the first step toward securing the best outcome for your children.

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WHY CUSTODY.MOM

Custody.mom stands out as a comprehensive resource built by parents, for parents, with a clearly defined commitment to accuracy, empathy, and empowerment.

We understand the emotional and legal complexities of custody battles. Our resources are designed to help you make informed decisions, gather the right documentation, and connect with experienced family law attorneys who specialize in custody cases.

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We distill the collective wisdom of family law experts into practical, step-by-step guidance you can actually use.

With state-specific information and real legal frameworks, we help you understand exactly what to expect in your jurisdiction.

We take pride in helping parents navigate custody with confidence, clarity, and access to the right legal resources.

From understanding custody types to preparing for court, we provide comprehensive information while connecting you with qualified attorneys who understand the unique aspects of your case.

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State Laws Guide

Comprehensive custody laws for all 50 states

Court Process

Filing, evaluations, and court preparation

Document Templates

Custody petitions, parenting plans, and logs

Attorneys

Connect with custody lawyers in your area

We offer comprehensive and practical legal advice designed to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Understand

Learn about custody types (legal, physical, sole, joint) and what factors courts consider when making decisions.

Connect

Find experienced custody attorneys in your state who offer free consultations and understand your unique situation.

Co-Parent

Access tools and resources for successful co-parenting after custody arrangements are finalized.

Striving for custody outcomes that protect your child’s best interests.

Striving for legal excellence and service

Every custody case is unique. While we provide comprehensive information to help you understand the process, we strongly recommend consulting with a licensed family law attorney who can provide advice specific to your situation.

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FaQ

Our team of experienced legal researchers, with a presence in all 50 U.S. states, is committed to helping you understand the custody process.

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about your child’s life (education, healthcare, religion), while physical custody determines where your child lives. You can have different arrangements for each type. Learn more about custody types in our comprehensive guide.

While it’s possible to represent yourself, custody cases involve complex legal procedures and long-term implications for you and your child. We strongly recommend consulting with a family law attorney who specializes in custody. Use our attorney finder to connect with qualified professionals in your state.

Courts prioritize the “best interest of the child” standard, considering factors like: each parent’s ability to provide care, the child’s relationship with each parent, stability of home environment, child’s wishes (depending on age), history of domestic violence, and more. These factors vary by state check your state’s specific custody laws.

Custody timelines vary significantly based on whether parents agree (uncontested) or disagree (contested). Uncontested cases can be resolved in 2-3 months, while contested cases may take 6-18 months or longer. Factors include court schedules, custody evaluations, and complexity of issues.