Alabama · AL
A plain-English reference to Alabama custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
Ala. Code § 30-3-1 et seq.; Ala. R. Jud. Admin. Rule 32 (support). In Alabama, courts generally describe the schedule as a standard visitation order. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
Joint custody is favored but not presumed; courts weigh the Ex parte Devine factors.
A mature child's preference is considered; no fixed statutory age.
The Alabama Parent-Child Relationship Protection Act requires 45 days' written notice before a move.
The McLendon standard applies to changes of primary custody — the benefit must materially outweigh the disruption.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). File in the circuit court of the county where the child has lived for the past 6 months.
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
Alabama applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
The Alabama Parent-Child Relationship Protection Act requires 45 days' written notice before a move.
The McLendon standard applies to changes of primary custody — the benefit must materially outweigh the disruption.
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.
Terminology, parent-education requirements, and filing venue are taken from each state's court self-help materials and statutes. Requirements change — confirm with the court where you file.
CustodyTrac publishes educational information, not legal advice. Custody and support outcomes depend on facts a calculator cannot see — confirm anything that matters with a family law attorney in your state.