File child custody sacramento ca

Additional information and instructions can be found on the California Courts' Online Self-Help Center - external link. Toggle navigation. Representing Yourself If you intend to represent yourself, it may be helpful to seek assistance through our Self-Help Center.

Online Self-Help Center Are you looking for something that is not covered on this page? You may only use this method of obtaining custody and support orders if there is no other case that has been filed anytime, anywhere regarding the children of this relationship.

You may file this petition if you are married to the other parent and do not wish to file for a divorce, legal separation, or nullity, or you are not married to the other parent and you and the other parent have signed a Voluntary Declaration of Paternity regarding each child. Be aware that if you are married to the other parent and later decide that you would like a divorce, legal separation, or annulment, you will have to file a new case and pay another filing fee.

If you were served with a Custody and Support Petition, you must file a Response within 30 days or risk the other party taking your default. If the other party takes your default, you may not be allowed to file documents or attend hearings in your case. If both parents are in agreement on a parenting plan, you may be able to obtain a court order without attending a hearing. You must have an open case for custody in the Sacramento Superior Court. If you do not have a case yet, or are not sure if the case you do have can be used, review the information on this page about the types of cases that can be used to obtain child custody and visitation orders.

If you have an open case, the Parenting Plans by Agreement packet contains the forms and instructions you will need to turn your agreement into a child custody order. If you are experiencing child custody and visitation problems because the other parent is not following or cooperating with the current orders, you have options.

We recommend that you review our instructions on Documenting Custody and Visitation Problems. To request a hearing to establish or modify child custody or visitation, you must file a Request for Order. A Complaint for Grandparent Visitation is used by a grandparent who wants to visit his or her grandchildren, but one or both parents are not permitting the visitation to occur.

A Petition for Joinder is used when a non-parent wants to participate in a Family Law case in order to get child custody or visitation orders.

The forms and instructions are included in the following packet:. In California, disputed child custody cases usually must go through mediation before a judge or commissioner and they will hear the case. We help you prepare for mediation by assembling paperwork that will help the mediator see a full and accurate picture, ensuring your child is given the proper amount of attention in the case that they deserve.

Child Custody. Giving Children the attention they deserve.