California · CA
A plain-English reference to California custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
Cal. Fam. Code §§ 3011, 3020, 3040; § 4055 (support formula). In California, courts generally describe the schedule as a parenting plan. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
Frequent and continuing contact with both parents is state policy; no automatic 50/50 presumption.
A child 14 or older must be allowed to address the court unless it is not in their interest (Fam. Code § 3042).
Fam. Code § 7501 gives a parent with sole physical custody a presumptive right to move; 45 days' notice is standard in orders.
A final judicial custody determination requires changed circumstances; other orders use best interests.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Use form FL-341 (Child Custody and Visitation Order Attachment) for the parenting plan.
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
California applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
Fam. Code § 7501 gives a parent with sole physical custody a presumptive right to move; 45 days' notice is standard in orders.
A final judicial custody determination requires changed circumstances; other orders use best interests.
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.