Index
Family LawUnited States (Federal)

Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act (PKPA)

Summary

A federal law that requires states to honor child custody determinations made by courts in other states to prevent forum shopping and child snatching.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Right to have a valid custody order from one state enforced in any other state.
  • 02.
    Protection against a non-custodial parent moving a child to a new state to get a different custody order.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Contempt of court charges.
  • 02.
    Civil liability for legal fees and travel costs.
  • 03.
    Potential criminal charges for custodial interference.

Verified Citations

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