Child Custody and Visitation in Iowa
Iowa Legal Aid's printed booklet, "Child Custody and Visitation in Iowa," updated March 2024.
Custody Order for Parents with Open CINA Cases
Parents involved in open Child in Need of Assistance (CINA) cases have a way to get a court to order permanent custody, physical care, and visitation.
Fathers' Rights in Unmarried Situations
If parents are not married at the time of a child's birth, a father's participation in making many important decisions may be limited until paternity is established.
Grandparent Visitation in Iowa
In Iowa, a grandparent can ask the court for visitation in limited circumstances.
How Social Media Can Be Used Against People in Family Law Cases
What people put on social media websites can end up being used in unexpected ways. Being aware of the potential risks can help you avoid adding content that could cause problems down the road.
How to Modify a Custody Order
Custody orders are issued by a court in which a judge establishes a schedule for separated parents to have parenting time with their children. This resource will discuss when and how a parent can change, or modify, a custody order.
Limited Representation (Unbundled Legal Services)
Questions and answers about a different way lawyers can provide services to clients.
Passports and Child Custody
Information and Links to the form needed to apply for a passport for a child.
Resolving Family Law Problems Through Mediation
A divorce or custody action can take a long time. It can cost a lot of money and be very emotional and stressful for the family. Iowa courts have looked for other ways to resolve family law disputes.
Termination of Parental Rights
When you have "parental rights" to a child, you are that child's parent in the eyes of the law. When your parental rights to a child are terminated, you stop being that child's parent.
The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act
The UCCJEA says that an Iowa court can only make decisions about custody of a child if Iowa has jurisdiction over that child.