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Missouri · MO

Missouri Custody Laws: Parenting Time & Relocation

A plain-English reference to Missouri 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 Missouri family-law attorney.

Primary law and terminology

RSMo § 452.375 and § 452.310 (proposed parenting plan). In Missouri, 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.

Joint custody and parenting time

Public policy favors frequent, continuing and meaningful contact; a written plan must be filed with the petition.

Child preference

The child's wishes are a statutory factor.

Relocation and move-away cases

RSMo § 452.377 requires 60 days' written notice by certified mail before any relocation.

Changing an existing order

A substantial change in the circumstances of the child or custodial parent 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). Missouri requires a proposed parenting plan filed with the petition (RSMo §452.310).

Build a workable Missouri 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.

Missouri custody questions

What are the custody laws in Missouri?

Missouri 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 Missouri?

RSMo § 452.377 requires 60 days' written notice by certified mail before any relocation.

How do I change a Missouri custody order?

A substantial change in the circumstances of the child or custodial parent is required.

More Missouri family-law resources

Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.

Last reviewed ·Reviewed by the CustodyTrac editorial team

How this is calculated

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.