Free Printable California Child Custody Agreement & Requirements

Parenting plan and custody arrangements

Sales Tax: 7.25%Notary: $15Witnesses: 1

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CHILD CUSTODY AND PARENTING PLAN
State of California

This Agreement is entered into on [DATE] between:

PARENT 1:
Name: [NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], CA [ZIP]

PARENT 2:
Name: [NAME]
Address: [ADDRESS], CA [ZIP]

CHILD(REN):
Name: [CHILD NAME] DOB: [DATE]
Name: [CHILD NAME] DOB: [DATE]

1. LEGAL CUSTODY:
   [  ] Joint legal custody (both parents make major decisions)
   [  ] Sole legal custody to [PARENT]

2. PHYSICAL CUSTODY:
   [  ] Joint physical custody
   [  ] Primary residence with [PARENT]
   [  ] Sole physical custody to [PARENT]

3. PARENTING SCHEDULE:
   Regular Schedule: [DESCRIBE WEEKLY SCHEDULE]
   Holidays: [DESCRIBE HOLIDAY ROTATION]
   Summer: [DESCRIBE SUMMER SCHEDULE]
   School Breaks: [DESCRIBE]

4. TRANSPORTATION: [DESCRIBE PICKUP/DROPOFF ARRANGEMENTS]

5. COMMUNICATION: The non-custodial parent may communicate with the child via [PHONE/VIDEO] at [TIMES].

6. RELOCATION: Neither parent may relocate more than [MILES] miles without [DAYS] days written notice and [  ] consent [  ] court approval.

7. CHILD SUPPORT: [PAYOR] pays $[AMOUNT] per month per California guidelines.

8. MEDICAL: [  ] Shared equally [  ] [PARENT] provides insurance. Uninsured costs split [PERCENTAGE]%.

This agreement is governed by California family law (CA Statutes).

PARENT 1: _____________________ DATE: _____
PARENT 2: _____________________ DATE: _____

Where to File Your Child Custody Agreement in California

Visit your local County Clerk office to file or notarize your Child Custody Agreement.

LA County Clerk

Los Angeles

12400 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk, CA 90650

SF County Clerk

San Francisco

1 Dr Carlton B Goodlett Pl, SF, CA 94102

San Diego County Clerk

San Diego

1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

Sacramento County Clerk

Sacramento

600 8th St, Sacramento, CA 95814

Child Custody Agreement Costs in California

Estimated fees and processing times

Fee TypeCostNotes
Notary Fee$5-$15 (if required)California standard rate: $15
Filing FeeVaries by stateState filing: $15
Processing Time1-3 business daysTypical turnaround in California
Sales Tax7.25%California base rate (local taxes may apply)
Witness Requirement1 witnessSingle witness sufficient
Our TemplateFREEDownload instantly, no cost
Fees shown are California-specific estimates. Contact your local office for exact pricing.

FAQ: Child Custody Agreement in California

Is a Child Custody Agreement required in California?

Yes, in California, a Child Custody Agreement is required for most transactions of this type. Under California State Code, the document must include all parties' information, be signed, and witnessed by at least one individual. Failure to use a proper Child Custody Agreement may result in legal complications.

Does a Child Custody Agreement need to be notarized in California?

Notarization requirements in California (CA) vary by transaction type. Notary fees in the state typically range from $15. While not always mandatory, notarization adds an extra layer of legal protection and is recommended for high-value transactions.

What are the tax implications of a Child Custody Agreement in California?

California has a base sales tax rate of 7.25%. Depending on the type of transaction documented in your Child Custody Agreement, additional local taxes may apply. Consult with a California tax professional for specific guidance on your situation.

California Child Custody Agreement Legal Guide

This legally binding document in California serves as official proof of transaction and is recognized by courts and government agencies.

Pursuant to California State Code in California, this Child Custody Agreement must meet specific criteria. The applicable sales tax is 7.25%. Notarization, which costs $15 in CA, may be required depending on the transaction type. 1 witness is needed.

Ensure your transaction is legally sound in California with this expertly crafted, state-compliant template.

parenting plancustody schedulevisitation rightslegal custodyphysical custodychild support
Whether you're a first-time child custody agreement user or a seasoned professional in California, understanding the legal nuances of this document is essential. California (CA) has specific statutes that govern how this form must be prepared, signed, and filed.

Your California Filing Guide

After downloading, take your time filling in each section. CA statutes require that all information be accurate and current. Once signed by all parties, determine whether California requires you to file the document with a government office, record it with the county, or simply retain it for your records.

Smart Practices for CA Compliance

California has specific rules that differ from neighboring states. Always verify your document against current CA statutes, especially if you're using a template from a previous year. Laws change, and what was valid last year in California may need updating for 2026.

Legal Validity & Enforcement

Once properly executed, your Child Custody Agreement is legally binding in California and enforceable in CA courts. The document remains valid indefinitely unless revoked or superseded. California courts generally uphold properly executed documents, provided they comply with applicable CA statutes.

CA Compliance Checklist

Before finalizing your Child Custody Agreement, verify that it meets California's legal standards:
- Full legal names and addresses of all parties
- Clear description of the subject matter
- Consideration or purpose stated explicitly
- Dated and signed by all required parties
- Notarized if mandated by CA statute

SMJ
Reviewed & Fact-Checked

Sarah Mitchell, J.D.

Legal Document Specialist

Licensed Attorney, 15+ years experience

Specializes in contract law and legal document preparation

This Child Custody Agreement template for California has been reviewed for accuracy and legal compliance.

Last reviewed: March 2026

California Child Custody Agreement Requirements

Review the following requirements to ensure your Child Custody Agreement is legally valid in California.

Notarization required
1 witness must sign
Vehicle identification number (VIN) required
Odometer disclosure mandatory
Buyer and seller signatures required
Purchase price must be stated
Date of sale required
Blue or black ink only
Electronic signatures accepted
County clerk filing required

California Notarization

While notarization may not be required in California, it is recommended. Fees range from $15.

Before You Sign

Review all information carefully. In California, a 7.25% sales tax may apply.

Legal Protection

Keep copies of all signed documents. California law requires all parties to receive copies of executed documents.

California Filing Deadlines

Check California deadlines for filing. The state filing fee is $15. Late filing may result in penalties.

Document Information

Document
Child Custody Agreement
State
California (CA)
Category
Family
Format
PDF / Word / Print
Cost
100% Free
Sales Tax
7.25%
Notary Fee
$15

California Legal Requirements

Governing Statute:

State Law

  • Consult with a licensed attorney for specific requirements

Legal Disclaimer

This template is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws in California may change. Consult a licensed attorney for advice specific to your situation.