Visitation

questions & answers

Question: I have court order establishing visitaion from Texas. However, I recently moved to AZ where my son lives. I want to modify the order. Should I go through the AZ or TX courts? What do paperwork do I need to file? I can not afford a lawyer.

Answer: If Texas issued a legitimate custody order in the past, and the current legal custodians still live in Texas, you must respect Texas’s continued authority over the case. Only Texas can give everyone permission to litigate the custody issue in a different State. If you are interested in further reading, the rules governing interstate custody issues like this are all grouped together under a body of law called "The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act" ('UCCJEA'). They can be found starting at A.R.S. § 25-1001.  Family law matters can be very complicated. Should you decide that you want to speak with an attorney regarding you specific situation, please visit our website for more information. There may be legal aid options available for you.