When you need form FL-260
The FL-260 Petition for Custody and Support of Minor Children form is a crucial document in the process of establishing custody and support arrangements for minor children. Typically, someone would need to use this form when they are seeking legal decisions regarding custody and support, but are not pursuing dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or a determination of parentage.
- Before filing FL-260, an individual might finalize a **Voluntary Declaration of Parentage** if not already established.
- If there is an existing juvenile court or governmental child support case, it's essential to consider and align with those filings.
- The situation might be triggered by changes in living arrangements or by reaching agreements that need formal recognition by the legal system.
After the triggering event like a mutually agreed declaration or an unresolved custody dispute, filing the FL-260 initiates a court's intervention to formalize custody and support arrangements. It's also crucial to file the **Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA)** alongside, to denote jurisdictional claims. This petition marks the start of a focused legal interaction solely concerning the welfare and management of minor children between parents.
- **1. Complete the Form:** Fill out the FL-260 Petition for Custody and Support of Minor Children accurately, providing all required details about parenting and custody arrangements.
- **2. Prepare Additional Documents:** Attach the Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) (form FL-105) as well as any other necessary forms such as voluntary declaration of parentage if applicable.
- **3. File With Superior Court:** Submit the completed form to the Clerk’s Office of the Superior Court in your county. Pay any filing fees required.
- **4. Serve the Other Parent:** Serve the petition and any accompanying documents to the respondent, ensuring a blank Response to Petition for Custody and Support of Minor Children (form FL-270) is included.
- **5. Attend Scheduled Hearings:** Be present for any court dates or hearings that follow the filing and take part in the proceedings regarding custody and support.