Custody paperwork: what to gather and how to organize it
In short: Forms differ by state and county, but custody cases generally need your court forms, proof of your child's details, a proposed schedule, and a calm, dated record of communication.
1. Start with your court's own forms
Most courts publish custody and parenting forms on their website or give them at the clerk's office or self-help center. Use your court's version of each form, because requirements differ by state and county.
2. Common documents people prepare
- The petition or complaint (or your response if you were served)
- Basic information about each child, such as birth dates and where they have lived
- A proposed parenting plan or schedule: weekdays, weekends, holidays, and transportation
- Financial information if support will be decided
- A sworn statement (declaration) about the facts that matter to your request
3. Keep a calm, dated record
Courts care about what actually happened. Keep dates and short factual notes of pickups, drop-offs, missed visits, and important messages. Stay polite in writing, because anything you send can end up in front of a judge.
4. Expect extra steps
Many courts require mediation, a parenting class, or a hearing about temporary arrangements. Ask the clerk what your court requires and when each step has to be done.
5. If safety is a concern
If you or your child are in danger, contact local emergency services. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233. Courts also have separate processes for protective orders, which the clerk can explain.
6. Serve and file on time
After filing, the other parent usually must be formally served in the way your court's rules require. Deadlines and methods are strict, so confirm them with the clerk.
Keep the record straight
HyperLaw's Family Court co-parent chat keeps a calm, permanent record between two parents, with agreed chat rules, seen times on requests, and confirmed pickups and drop-offs. The rest of HyperLaw helps you organize documents and draft from the facts you give it.
Try HyperLaw freeNot legal advice. HyperLaw provides legal information and drafting tools. It is not a law firm, is not a lawyer, and does not give legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Court rules and deadlines differ by court and state, so always confirm yours with the court clerk and talk with a licensed attorney when you can.