This toolkit tells you how to ask for a custody, visitation, child support, medical support, and dental support order if
(1) you and the other parent are not married (or don’t want a divorce),
(2) you and the other parent have signed an “Acknowledgment of Paternity,” and
(3) there are no existing court orders about your child.
FORMS ARE INCLUDED.
This toolkit includes:
- Instructions & Forms you can use to file a custody case called a "Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship" (SAPCR for short).
- Use the first set of instructions if the other parent agrees.
- Use the second set of instructions if you don’t think the child’s other parent will participate in the process.
- Frequently Asked Questions about filing a SAPCR case.
- Articles on topics related to custody, visitation/possession, child support, medical support, and dental support.
Do NOT use this toolkit if:
- You and the other parent have NOT signed an “Acknowledgment of Paternity.” Use this toolkit: I need a paternity order. A paternity order identifies the child's legal father AND makes custody, visitation, child support, medical support, and dental support orders.
- You are married to the child’s other parent and want a divorce. Use this toolkit instead: I need a divorce. We have minor children.
- There is already a court order about your child (not including a family violence protective order). If there is already a court order about your child (such as an Attorney General Child Support Order), use this toolkit instead: I need to change a custody, visitation, or support order.
- The case is, or is likely to be, contested. If you are not sure, read Is my SAPCR contested or uncontested?
Note: If there is a family violence protective order, you CAN use this toolkit as long as you meet the other requirements. You must attach a copy of the protective order to your Petition. If you were the victim of family violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE (7233) before filing a SAPCR case. You may qualify for free legal help.
Other Options:
- Get help from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG)—Although the OAG cannot represent you, the OAG may be able to help you get a custody, visitation, child support (including back child support), and medical and dental support order. For information about opening a case with the OAG, call (800) 252-8014 or go to its website: Texas Attorney General Child Support Division.
Need Help?
WARNING! The information and forms in this toolkit are not legal advice and are not a substitute for the help of a lawyer. It’s a good idea to talk with a lawyer about your particular situation.