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Free organization guide

The factual custody record checklist

A simple routine for keeping custody dates, notes, receipts, files, parenting time, and expenses clearer and easier to find.

This guide provides general organization information. It is not legal advice, and it does not determine whether a record proves a fact or may be used in a legal proceeding.
Download the starter kit with a fillable note page (PDF)
1

Start with the date

Record when the event happened. If you enter it later, keep the event date separate from the date you created the record.

2

Describe what you directly observed

Use plain language for actions, times, locations, amounts, and other details you observed. Avoid guessing about intent, motivation, diagnosis, or future behavior.

3

Keep the original source

Save the original receipt, photo, message export, document, or other source when appropriate. Keep your summary separate from the source.

4

Connect the source to the event

Attach or reference the source next to the dated event it supports. Use a short neutral label that will still make sense months later.

5

Record parenting time consistently

Use the same routine for scheduled, completed, changed, late, early, or missed parenting time. Keep the scheduled time separate from the observed time.

6

Record expenses consistently

Include the date, amount, purpose, payer, and receipt when available. Keep the source amount separate from a later calculation or reimbursement note.

7

Review once each week

Check for missing dates, missing sources, duplicate entries, and unclear labels while the details are still fresh.

8

Protect sensitive information

Use a private email account, protect one-time sign-in codes, and secure your device. Confirm who can access information before sharing it, and keep case details out of public posts and marketing surveys.

The five minute weekly review

  1. 1. Add any missing dated event.
  2. 2. Connect any new receipt or supporting file.
  3. 3. Check parenting time and expense entries for accuracy.
  4. 4. Replace conclusions with observable details where appropriate.
  5. 5. Confirm that important information can be found quickly.
Use the complete weekly routine

Keep the checklist and the records together.

Custody Folio gives adults one private place to organize dated custody events, parenting time, expenses, notes, files, and reports. No other parent account is required.

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