Section 15.24 Child Custody Proceedings

• Library: App Ct Prac 2015 Supp

9. (§15.24) Child Custody Proceedings

Traditionally, custody of a minor child may be determined by habeas corpus proceedings. Rule 91.01; In re Cook, 691 S.W.2d 243, 245 (Mo. banc 1985). Of course, there are numerous other proceedings in which to determine custody, including:

· juvenile court proceedings;

· dissolution proceedings; and

· probate proceedings.

When habeas corpus is used, it becomes a proceeding of equitable nature where the rights of the parties are measured in terms of the child’s welfare. Ex parte De Castro, 190 S.W.2d 949 (Mo. App. E.D. 1945). The typical situation when habeas corpus could be used is when...