Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act


Definition of Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) is a law in every state that explains which court has authority and jurisdiction in cases involving child custodial matters. In simple words, it is a set of guidelines and laws where action related to a child’s custody can be brought in a scenario where children have lived elsewhere before the action begins.



Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act Explained

This Act was developed and drafted by the “National Conference of Commissioners on United State Laws” in the year 1997. Currently, 49 states of the United States have adopted this act. The UCCJEA replaced the former Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act, mainly because the latter was inconsistent with other laws in the same domain.