Menu Close

What court handles child custody in Arizona?

What court handles child custody in Arizona?

The Family Court hears cases involving divorce, paternity & maternity actions, legal decision-making, parenting time, and child support.

Who has custody of a child when the parents are not married in Arizona?

By the law in Arizona, if a woman has a child out of wedlock, the mother automatically becomes the sole legal custodian until paternity is established or the court determines the custodial parent. Until that time, the mother has the right to make arrangements for the child without consulting the biological father.

How do I file for full custody in Arizona?

Arizona law requires submitting a written parenting plan to the court by parents seeking joint custody. The parenting plan defines access terms and conditions both parties must comply with and which the child will depend upon.

Do you have to pay child support if you have 50/50 custody in Arizona?

So even if the parties “agree” not to pay child support to each other, the court will have an independent legal obligation to ensure that your agreement doesn’t hurt the kids. A 50-50 division of parenting time *often* results in a minimal – or even nonexistent – need for child support payments.

What rights does a father have in AZ?

A father has the right to seek majority parenting time, equal time, or less time than the other parent enjoys. Parenting time ensures he has substantial, frequent, meaningful and continuing contact with his child. Dad has the right to parenting time, even if the other parent has sole legal decision-making.

Is Arizona a mother’s state?

No, Arizona is not a Mother’s state. A judge in Arizona is not allowed to consider the gender of either parent when making a child custody order.

How much does custody cost in AZ?

Expect to pay between $100 and $200 when you file. Your county may have additional costs, including fees for motions (e.g., a request for temporary orders), notary services and copying forms. If you can’t afford the fees, you may be eligible for a deferral or waiver. Submit a request along with your other paperwork.

Is AZ A Mother State?

How does child support work in AZ?

The Total Child Support Obligation shall be divided between the parents in proportion to their Adjusted Gross Incomes. The obligation of each parent is computed by multiplying each parent’s share of the Combined Adjusted Gross Income by the Total Child Support Obligation.

If you would like to pursue custody you can either file in juvenile court for guardianship or perhaps in family court for in loco parentis.

How long does a family court judge have to make a decision in AZ?

60 days
Most often, the judge will take your matter “under advisement” and make a ruling within a few weeks, although pursuant to Arizona law judges have up to 60 days to make a ruling.

What kind of cases are tried in Maricopa County Superior Court?

Presently, there are approximately 60 commissioners in Superior Court. Criminal felony cases, including murder, child molestation, aggravated and sexual assault, kidnapping, armed robbery, fraud, drunk driving and drug offenses.

What rights does a father have in Arizona?

The biological father has no legal rights. Paternity must be established before he can acquire parental rights and obligations. Under Arizona law, until paternity has been established, the mother can make all plans and decisions for the child without having to consult the biological father.

What the Family court expects from parents?

The court therefore expects you to do what is best for your child; Encourage your child to have a good relationship with both of you. Try to have a good enough relationship with each other as parents, even though you are no longer together as a couple. Arrange for you child to send time with each of you.

What does Maricopa County Superior Court do?

The Superior Court of Arizona in Maricopa County is the 4th largest trial court in the country. The court has jurisdiction over all felony cases committed in Maricopa County. The Criminal Department is the largest department within the court.

What makes a parent unfit in Arizona?

The legal definition of an unfit parent is when the parent through their conduct fails to provide proper guidance, care, or support. Also, if there is abuse, neglect, or substance abuse issues, that parent will be deemed unfit.

What is considered an unfit parent in Arizona?