Custody

If the other parent took your child across state lines, they may have committed a crime. They might be charged with what’s commonly known as “custodial interference” or “parental kidnapping” if:

• there is a custody order in effect and they know that leaving the state with your child would violate it;
• the person who took your child is a noncustodial parent or another relative; and
• your child is younger than 14.¹

If this is true in your situation, you might choose to:

• call your local law enforcement to report what’s happened;
• return to the court that issued your custody order and try to have it enforced; or
• talk to an experienced family law attorney to get legal advice about your next steps. Our Mississippi Finding a Lawyer page can help you get started.

Even if you don’t think a crime has been committed, you still might have some options. You may be able to enforce your existing court order or start a new custody case if you don’t have an order yet. A Mississippi lawyer can help you decide what to do.

¹ Miss. Code § 97-3-51