What is it?

The UCCJEA is a law followed by virtually every state in the United States to make sure only one court can make a decision about child custody. This is instead of more than one court having the ability to make such a decision. Why is this important? Well, sometimes children have parents who live in two different states. So, how should we know which state will decide over initial child custody orders or modifications?

What does the UCCJEA do?

This law gives one court the ability to make an initial order or to have one court be able to modify an existing order concerning child custody. This law helps make sure there are not multiple child custody orders from around the country for the same child/children.

Sometimes orders in different states are filed, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The result is that having multiple orders makes one parent believe they are right over the other parent’s reliance on a different order.

So, to avoid confusion and chaos, this Act sets up a framework for finding out:

1. Which order was first, and

2. Which court should continue having jurisdiction to modify parents’ rights, duties, and obligations towards their children in the future.

Need more information on how this affects your child custody matter? You should find the best lawyer to help you with your interstate legal issues. The Agustin Hernandez Law Firm has experience dealing with interstate child custody issues. Call the Agustin Hernandez Law Firm for more information. (956) 255-5555

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