Section 27.22 Initial Custody Determinations

• Library: Family Law Deskbook and 2014 Supp

1. (§27.22) Initial Custody Determinations

Under § 452.740, RSMo Supp. 2011, Missouri courts have jurisdiction to make the initial child custody determination concerning a particular child if:

· Missouri is the “home state” (§ 452.705(8), RSMo Supp. 2011):

of the child on the date of the commencement of the proceeding, or was the home state of the child within six months prior to the commencement of the proceeding and the child is absent from [Missouri] but a parent or person acting as a parent continues to live in [Missouri];

Section 452.740.1(1);

· a court of another state does not have home state jurisdiction or a court of the child’s home state has declined to exercise jurisdiction on the grounds that Missouri is the more appropriate forum (§§ 452.770 and 452.775, RSMo Supp. 2011), §...