Divorce and custody laws can vary significantly in different states and jurisdictions. However, there is a growing call for more uniformity in custody laws throughout the United States. These reforms are intended to make the process easier for parents who live in different states, as well as to ensure that regional cultural and social differences that may be unfair are minimized. However, in most states, the basic legal elements of divorce and custody laws are similar, although each state has its own unique procedures, terms, and regulations. The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act is a federal law that was passed in order to help parents who live in different states achieve a fairer and more balanced outcome in their custody cases. In addition, The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act eliminates much of the confusion about where child custody cases should be filed and which court will play the primary role in determining the case. If you have questions about the divorce and custody laws that apply in your state, schedule a consultation with a qualified family law attorney in your community.