Custody Overview
Child custody and visitation are often a primary concern of individuals going through a divorce. Below you will find introductory information on child custody and visitation, answers to common questions about visitation, and information on how custody decisions are made. In addition, this section also includes some considerations for parenting after a divorce, such as virtual visitation and how to help ease the strain of divorce on children. You can start by downloading FindLaw's Guide to Child Custody [pdf].
- Child Custody Basics
A breakdown of child custody and visitation law, such as the different types of custody; factors affecting the custody decision; determining who a child’s “primary caregiver” is; and related matters.
- Child Visitation FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about parental visitation rights, including the legal meaning of “reasonable;” how to prevent child abuse during a visitation; grandparents’ visitation rights; and more.
- How Custody Decisions are Made
Basics of how child custody decisions are made in family courts, including non-parental custody decisions; custody issues for unmarried parents; and reaching agreements out of court.
- More Child Custody and Visitation FAQs
Answers to additional questions about child custody and visitation, such as the difference between “legal” and “physical” custody; the custody rights of unmarried fathers; and child custody eligibility requirements.
- Virtual Visitation
So-called “virtual visitation” options for noncustodial parents who are unable to meet with children in person, such as the use of telephones, Web cameras, and other technology.
- Child Custody Forms by State
Links to court forms and instructions pertaining to child custody for all 50 states (plus Washington, D.C.); including forms for modifying child custody orders and providing for grandparent visitation.