Primary law and terminology
K.S.A. § 23-3201 et seq.. In Kansas, 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.
Kansas · KS
Kansas Custody Laws: Parenting Time & Relocation
A plain-English reference to Kansas custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
Informational only—not legal advice. Laws and guidelines change. Verify the current rule with the official court resource and a licensed Kansas family-law attorney.
Joint custody and parenting time
Joint legal custody is presumed unless a parent is shown unfit or the parents agree otherwise.
Child preference
Considered where the child is of sufficient age and maturity.
Relocation and move-away cases
K.S.A. § 23-3222 requires 30 days' written notice of a change of residence.
Changing an existing order
A material change of circumstances is required.
Where to file
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Kansas presumes joint legal custody unless one parent is shown unfit.
Build a workable Kansas 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.
Kansas custody questions
What are the custody laws in Kansas?
Kansas applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
Can a parent move with a child in Kansas?
K.S.A. § 23-3222 requires 30 days' written notice of a change of residence.
How do I change a Kansas custody order?
A material change of circumstances is required.
More Kansas family-law resources
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
- Parenting plan guides by state
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
- Custody schedule patterns explained
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
- Custody percentage calculator
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
- Court-ready PDF legal exports
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
- State-by-state child support estimator
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.