What is a Child Custody Agreement Template?

Legal document establishing parental custody arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and support obligations following divorce or separation for children's welfare and stability.

What should a Child Custody Agreement Template include?

Whereas, Definitions, Custody Arrangements, Parenting Time, Decision, Child Support.

When do I need a Child Custody Agreement Template?

Finalizing custody arrangements during divorce proceedings with court approval requirements. Establishing visitation schedule and decision-making authority following parental separation. Modifying existing custody orders due to changed circumstances or relocation. Creating enforceable custody structure that prioritizes children's best interests and stability. Documenting agreed-upon parenting arrangements to avoid future conflicts and misunderstandings.

Free Child Custody Agreement Template Template | Download & Customize

CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT

THIS CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT (“Agreement”) is made and entered into on [Date], BETWEEN:

[Parent 1 Name], residing at [Parent 1 Address] (“Parent 1”);
AND
[Parent 2 Name], residing at [Parent 2 Address] (“Parent 2”).

WHEREAS

Parent 1 and Parent 2 are the parents or legal guardians of the following minor child(ren):
- [Child 1 Full Name], born [Child 1 Date of Birth]
- [Child 2 Full Name], born [Child 2 Date of Birth]
- [Add additional children as needed]
The parties wish to agree upon the custody, care, and support arrangements for the child(ren) listed above.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

1. DEFINITIONS

1.1. Physical Custody: The right and responsibility to provide a home for the child(ren) and to make day-to-day decisions regarding their welfare.

1.2. Legal Custody: The right and responsibility to make major decisions regarding the child(ren)’s health, education, and welfare.

2. CUSTODY ARRANGEMENTS

2.1. Legal Custody

[Select one: Joint Legal Custody / Sole Legal Custody to Parent 1 / Sole Legal Custody to Parent 2]

2.2. Physical Custody

[Select one: Joint Physical Custody / Sole Physical Custody to Parent 1 / Sole Physical Custody to Parent 2]

2.3. Primary Residence

The primary residence of the child(ren) shall be with [Parent 1 / Parent 2 / Both Parents at specified times].

3. PARENTING TIME (VISITATION)

3.1. Regular Schedule

The child(ren) shall spend time with Parent 1 as follows: [Specify days/times, e.g., “Every Monday to Thursday”].
The child(ren) shall spend time with Parent 2 as follows: [Specify days/times, e.g., “Every Friday to Sunday”].

3.2. Holiday Schedule

Holidays shall be alternated/shared as follows: [List holidays and specify which parent has custody in which years].

3.3. Vacation Time

Each parent is entitled to [number] weeks of vacation time with the child(ren) per year, with at least [number] days’ advance written notice to the other parent.

4. DECISION-MAKING

4.1. Major Decisions

The parties shall discuss and agree on major decisions affecting the child(ren), including but not limited to education, health care, and religious upbringing.

4.2. Day-to-Day Decisions

The parent with whom the child(ren) is residing shall make day-to-day decisions regarding the child(ren)’s routine care.

5. CHILD SUPPORT

5.1. Payment Amount

[Parent 1 / Parent 2] shall pay child support in the amount of [Amount] per [week/month], payable on or before the [day] of each [week/month].

5.2. Method of Payment

Payments shall be made by [bank transfer/check/other method] to [Parent 1 / Parent 2] at [payment address/account details].

5.3. Other Expenses

The parties shall share additional expenses for the child(ren), including but not limited to medical, dental, educational, and extracurricular costs, as follows: [Specify percentage split or other arrangement].

6. RELOCATION

6.1. Neither parent shall relocate with the child(ren) more than [number] miles/kilometers from their current residence without providing at least [number] days’ written notice to the other parent and obtaining written consent or a court order if required.

7. COMMUNICATION

7.1. Each parent shall have reasonable telephone, video, or electronic communication with the child(ren) during the other parent’s custodial time, provided it does not interfere with the child(ren)’s routine.

8. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

8.1. If disagreements arise regarding this Agreement, the parties shall first attempt to resolve the matter through discussion or mediation before seeking court intervention.

9. MODIFICATION

9.1. This Agreement may be modified only by a written document signed by both parents or by court order.

10. GOVERNING LAW

10.1. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [Governing Law State/Country].

11. ENTIRE AGREEMENT

11.1. This Agreement contains the entire understanding between the parties concerning the subject matter herein and supersedes all prior agreements or understandings, whether written or oral.

12. SEVERABILITY

12.1. If any provision of this Agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

13. NOTICE

13.1. Any notice required under this Agreement shall be given in writing to the other parent at their address stated above or at such other address as may be provided in writing.

14. DISCLAIMER

This document is a template and may not be suitable for all situations. The parties should consult with legal counsel before signing this agreement.

SIGNATURES

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Child Custody Agreement as of the date first written above.

Parent 1:
Signature: ___________________________
Name: [Parent 1 Name]
Date: _______________________________

Parent 2:
Signature: ___________________________
Name: [Parent 2 Name]
Date: _______________________________

Witness (if required):
Signature: ___________________________
Name: [Witness Name]
Date: _______________________________

Child Custody Agreement Template