Child Custody

Parties can represent themselves in child custody cases. Unfortunately, due to limited resources, NPLS can only provide representation and/or advice in a limited number of child custody cases.

Links to NPLS Custody Videos:

Lackawanna County Custody Video

Luzerne County Custody Video

Lycoming County Custody Video

Monroe County Custody Video

Custody Video for All Other Counties

NPLS Custody Video Certification Form

Other Resources:

NPLS Family Law Handbook in English

NPLS Family Law Handbook in Spanish

FAQs Self-Help Resources Local Resources & Lawyer Referrals Related Issues Apply for Free Legal Services

FAQs

Can I give up my parental rights to avoid child support?

The general rule is you cannot give up your rights to avoid paying child support. Only If the other parent intends to have someone else adopt your child, will the Court allow you to terminate your parental rights and eliminate any further obligation to pay child support.

Can a grandparent file for custody of a minor child?

A grandparent or great grandparent may file for any form of physical or legal custody if they acted “in loco parentis”. Meaning that they acted like a child’s parent for twelve consecutive months and/or the child is substantially at risk due to parental abuse, drug or alcohol abuse, or incapacity.

Can I move out of my County with the child if the other parent disagrees?

Relocation with your minor child outside of the county or the state of Pennsylvania can only occur if the other parent agrees or the Court approves the proposed relocation. There are several factors that must be met by the parent who wishes to remove the child from their current home.

Do I need to hire an attorney in family law cases?

No. In almost every County the Court system now provide pro se legal forms that will enable individuals to file divorce, custody, support and PFA’s without the need to employ an attorney. There is also a website www.PALawHelp.org that provides information and sample pleadings that enable you to represent yourself in Family Court.

Can I retake my maiden name after my divorce is final?

At any time after the entry of a final divorce decree the litigant can retake their prior last name by filling out a form to retake your maiden name. The form can be obtained from your local Protonotary or Clerk of Court indicating that you wish to retake your maiden name.

Self-Help Resources

Custody Update 2014 (Video)

Lackawanna County Custody video (Video)

Monroe County Custody video (Video)

Luzerne County Custody video (Video)

Lycoming County Custody video (Video)

Family Law Handbook in Spanish (Handbook)

Family Law Handbook (Handbook)

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Child Custody

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