Vermont · VT
A plain-English reference to Vermont custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
15 V.S.A. § 665. In Vermont, courts generally describe the schedule as a parental rights and responsibilities order. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
Vermont will not order shared legal responsibility unless both parents agree.
There is no statutory preference factor; the court may consider a mature child's views.
A relocation that significantly affects contact is treated as a real, substantial and unanticipated change.
A real, substantial and unanticipated change of circumstances is required.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Vermont uses 'parental rights and responsibilities' — no 'custody' terminology.
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
Vermont applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
A relocation that significantly affects contact is treated as a real, substantial and unanticipated change.
A real, substantial and unanticipated change of circumstances is required.
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.