There are many factors to consider in filing child custody papers or child custody forms. You can file child custody papers yourself (in pro per) or you may choose to retain a family law attorney to represent you and file the child custody paperwork on your behalf. There may be local rules and procedures for filing child custody papers you must adhere to including temporary custody papers. If you choose to represent yourself you will be taking on the responsibility of knowing the procedures and timelines related to your child custody papers and court appearances.
Child custody papers and forms can usually be obtained at your local family court and many times can be downloaded from the local family court website. Some courthouses provide assistance or services to help you complete the papers and forms and file them. Child custody papers can usually be filed in person or via mail. In some areas, there are fax filing agencies that have been approved by the court if you are unable to appear and wish to submit your papers via fax. Generally, the court will not set hearings over the phone. Child custody documents submitted through the mail will often be assigned a hearing date according to the statute requirements.
Typically, there are costs associated with filing child custody papers. For family law filing fees and other court related fees you will want to check with your local family court. If you are unable to pay the filing fees and costs, your local court may provide a fee waiver mechanism in which you can ask the court to permit you to proceed with filing your custody papers without paying the court fees and costs.
Whether you decide to file temporary custody papers or sole custody papers on your own or hire an attorney to do it for you, you would be wise to consult a family lawyer to find out where you stand legally on your child custody case and what your legal options are. Additionally, a family law attorney can help you understand the local requirements and procedures, local custody forms, timelines, and right approach for filing your child custody paperwork.
--
© 2008 Child Custody Coach
Child Custody Coach supplies information, written materials, online materials, and coaching services to parents in the field of child custody, namely, divorce, child custody and visitation, divorce, child custody evaluations, parenting, and all child custody related issues. Custody Match is an online consumer and family law attorney matching service to help consumers find the right family law attorney, divorce lawyer, or child custody attorney in their area.
^ top
|
