Skip to main content

Child Custody and Parenting Time

Learn about the types of child custody and parenting time orders, who can file for child custody, and how to file or change child custody orders.

When parents are separating, they may disagree about issues regarding their child. When the child is under 18, one or both parents can ask the court to make decisions for them by getting a court order for child custody or parenting time. For information about custody when you're not a parent, please see Guardianship of Minors.

Filing for custody

Learn about eligibility, the filing process, and how to get an immediate order.

Who can file for child custody?  File for child custody or parenting time  Get an immediate child custody or parenting time order 

How it works

Learn about the types of custody arrangements, how the court decides, and options if you have been abused.

Types of child custody arrangements  How child custody or parenting time is decided  Child custody and parenting time options when you’ve been abused 

Changing an order

Request to change a child custody or parenting time order  Child custody modification forms 

Resources

Probate and Family Court forms for actions involving unmarried parents  Massachusetts law about child custody and parenting time  Glossary of court terms 

Contact Information

Online

Probate and Family Court locations 

Locations

A list of court locations where you can file for child custody and parenting time

Find court locations

Related Services

Help Us Improve Mass.gov  with your feedback

Please do not include personal or contact information.
Feedback