Jurisdiction:
Area of Law:
Paternity in Missouri
Paternity is establishing rights and obligations to any child born outside of a marriage.
Free Legal Aid provides useful information about child custody. In addition to the video here, be sure you check out other resources.
The Petition for Child Custody (CAFC201) is a petition to use in the special circumstance where the requirements for the establishment of paternity have been met under Missouri law but no custody order (Parenting Plan) is in place. Check to learn more.
Child Custody in Missouri: The Best Interests of the Child
Missouri law provides courts with guidance by listing some of the factors that a judge should consider in making a decision about what’s in a child’s best interest. These generally fall into a few basic categories: Check to learn more.
Below, you'll find answers to some common questions about getting a divorce in Missouri. For more information on Missouri family law, see our Missouri Divorce and Family Law page. You can find all of our articles on getting a divorce in our Divorce Process area. Check to learn more.
According to Missouri Revised Statutes, Sections 452.375, “[i]f the parents cannot reach a mutual agreement concerning custody of the children, the court shall determine custody based on the best interests of the child factors.” Check to learn more.