Whether you just got served papers, need custody help, or want to protect your rights — Family Law Buddy gives you the real strategy, step by step, from day one.
Family Law Buddy covers every situation — married, unmarried, with kids or without.
Shocked, scared, unsure what to do next? We walk you through the first 48 hours — what to do, what not to do, and who to call.
Learn how status quo works, how to prepare for a custody evaluator, and what "physical joint custody" means for your support payments.
Agree on most things? Find flat-fee attorneys in your state for $200–$800 and get it done cleanly without spending a fortune.
You don't have to be married to go to court. Learn how to file for parenting time and protect your relationship with your child.
Mid-case and overwhelmed? Get guidance on discovery, preparing evidence, custody evaluations, and how to present yourself.
The other party isn't following the order? Learn how to file a contempt motion and enforce your MSA on your own if needed.
Like a choose-your-own-adventure — answer a few questions and we guide you exactly where you need to go.
Just served? Filing? Custody dispute? Not married but need court help? Pick your starting point — one question at a time.
Based on your state and situation, we give you exact steps, strategy tips, and what to watch out for every step of the way.
Download state-specific motion templates, access free consultation resources, and learn what attorneys charge thousands to tell you.
From pendente lite motions to custody evaluator prep — walk into every step of the process knowing exactly what to expect.
Most people don't know these roles exist until it's too late to prepare. Both are court-appointed, both cost money — usually split between parties — and both carry enormous weight with the judge.
When there's a high-conflict custody dispute, the judge may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) — an attorney or trained advocate whose only job is to represent the best interests of your child. They are not on your side or the other parent's side. They are on the child's side.
A Child Custody Evaluator is a licensed psychologist or mental health professional appointed by the court. They observe both parents, interview the children, sometimes visit your home, and deliver a detailed report directly to the judge.
That report is often the single most important document in your entire case. Treat every interaction like a job interview — you are proving you are the best parent for this role. This is exactly how one parent secured 50/50 custody when all the odds were against them.
Everything you wish someone had told you on day one — for a fraction of what an attorney charges.
Every piece of guidance, template, and resource tailored to your state.
Maximize every minute of your free 30-minute attorney consultations.
Pendente lite, Motion for Litigant's Rights, contempt motions — ready to file.
Understand how daily custody patterns become legal precedent and protect your time.
Know exactly what the Guardian ad Litem and custody evaluator look for — and how to show up.
Does your ex have a degree but no job? Learn how courts calculate what they could be earning.
What to record, how to organize it, and what actually matters when you get to court.
Can't afford an attorney? File motions yourself — including how to write one a judge will act on.
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Legal Disclaimer: Family Law Buddy is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. All content is for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this platform creates an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary significantly by state — always consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice specific to your situation. Individual results vary and no outcomes are guaranteed.