Things You'll Need:
- California Court Forms
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Step 1
Visit your County Courthouse website and determine what court location handles child custody cases in your County. If necessary, you can call the clerk of the court for assistance.
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Step 2
Next you will need to fill out several forms. Visit the California Judicial Council website for court forms. I have provided a link to the Judicial Council forms in the resource section that follows this article. The exact forms that you will use depends on your situation. There is a child custody form information page from the California Court self-help center that can assist you. I will also publish a link to that guide in the resource section below.
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Step 3
Once you have prepared all of the forms, you will need to take the original documents along with two copies to the courthouse. The court clerk will charge you a filing fee (called an "appearance fee"). The Court will keep your original documents, stamp your copies and give the copies back to you. One Copy is for you and the other is to be served on the other parent.
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Step 4
You will need to have the other parent served with a copy of all the child custody documents. You cannot serve the other parent yourself. You can have a process server or a police officer serve the other parent. You can also have a friend or family member do it if they are not involved in the case.
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Step 5
Be aware that child custody cases are tricky and the process of preparing, filing and serving court documents can be overwhelming. Wherever possible you should hire a lawyer. If you are in Southern California, I know some amazing, low cost child custody lawyers. I have provided links to their websites in the resource section. If nothing else, you should have an attorney look over your documents before you file them. If you are looking for an attorney I have some links below to help you find them.
