Fighting for Custody?
You Do Not Need a Divorce.
If you were never married, your path is different, often faster and less expensive. But you still need to be prepared. We will help you organize everything before your first attorney meeting.
No credit card required. Takes about 30 minutes.
Custody Without Divorce: What is Different?
Often Faster
No waiting periods for divorce. No property division delays. Courts can focus directly on custody arrangements.
Usually Less Expensive
Without divorce proceedings, legal costs are typically lower. But preparation still matters. Disorganized cases cost more.
Focused on Kids
The entire case centers on custody, visitation, and child support. No distractions from asset division or alimony.
What You Still Need to Prepare
Even without a divorce, courts need the same information about your children and your ability to parent. Walking in organized makes all the difference.
Children's Information
- Schools, teachers, schedules
- Healthcare providers and history
- Activities and special needs
- Current living arrangements
Parenting History
- Who handles daily care?
- Who attends school events?
- Who takes them to appointments?
- Current custody arrangement (informal)
Financial Picture
- Both parents' income
- Childcare costs
- Healthcare expenses
- Child support expectations
Living Situations
- Where each parent lives
- Space for children
- Proximity to school
- Safety considerations
Organize Everything in One Place
The Divorce Diary: Custody Edition
Our guided tool walks you through everything your attorney will ask. Even though you are not getting divorced, the custody, financial, and children sections are exactly what you need.
- ✓ Custody section FREE: start immediately
- ✓ Guided questions so you do not miss anything
- ✓ Printable checklists for attorney meetings
- ✓ PDF export to share with your lawyer
- ✓ "What to Expect" guides for custody proceedings
Custody section free. Unlock everything else for $149.
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Need help finding a custody attorney?
Enter your email and we will match you with a family law attorney in your area.
Common Questions
Do I need a lawyer for custody?
It is not required, but highly recommended, especially if the other parent has one. Even if you represent yourself, being organized gives you a significant advantage.
What if we were never married?
That is exactly who this is for. You do not need to file for divorce. You will file directly for custody, visitation, and child support. The process is often simpler.
How is child support calculated?
Each state has guidelines based on both parents' income, custody time, and childcare costs. Our financial section helps you gather the exact information courts need.
What if there are safety concerns?
Document everything. Our Safety section walks you through what to record and how to protect yourself and your children. Courts take safety seriously.
Can I be matched with an attorney?
Yes! Use our directory to find family law attorneys in your area who handle custody cases. Many offer free consultations.
Ready to Get Organized?
Start with the free Custody section. Take your time. When you are ready for everything else, we will help you save.
Start Free: Custody Section UnlockedNo credit card required. Your data is private and secure.
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