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I Need a Custody Order

This toolkit tells you about getting a custody, parenting time, and child support order. This toolkit is for you if you are not married to your child's other parent and paternity was established by Affidavit of Parentage. If you are married and need a custody order, please visit the I Need a Divorce and I Have Children toolkit.

For general information about getting a custody order, read the Articles. Read the Common Questions if you have a specific question. If you want to file a complaint for custody, use the Forms link to prepare your forms. The Checklists below have step-by-step instructions for getting a custody order. Go to Courts & Agencies for information about the court or agency that will handle your case.

You'll find links to legal aid offices and lawyer referral services under Find A Lawyer. If there is a Self-Help Center in your area you can get more help there. If you need something other than legal help, look in Community Services. If you need a fee waiver, an interpreter, a court to accommodate your disability, or more information about going to court, visit Going to Court.

Common Questions

Checklist – How to Request a Custody Order - Required Friend of the Court Process (print)

Checklist – How to Request a Custody Order - No Required Friend of the Court Process (print)

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