The UCCJEA addresses child-custody jurisdiction and enforcement. UIFSA addresses interstate family support. One case can involve both, and the court with authority over custody is not necessarily the court with authority to modify support.

UCCJEA: custody and parenting orders

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act helps determine which state may make custody orders and how those orders are enforced elsewhere.

Family Code section 3421 sets California’s initial-jurisdiction rules. Home-state priority is important, but the analysis includes statutory alternatives and special rules for very young children. An existing order raises additional continuing-jurisdiction and modification questions.

Section 3424 permits temporary emergency jurisdiction in specified circumstances. Emergency authority does not automatically become permanent authority to decide the entire custody case.

UIFSA: support across borders

The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act provides procedures for establishing, enforcing, and, when permitted, modifying support orders across jurisdictions. It covers child support and also contains rules concerning spousal support. California’s enactment begins with Family Code section 5700.101.

Start with the order and the requested relief

Identify whether the requested action concerns custody, support, enforcement, or modification. Then examine existing orders, the issuing jurisdiction, the parties’ residences, and the applicable statutory requirements. Moving to another state or registering an order there does not automatically transfer all authority to modify it.

Sources: California Family Code provisions linked above. Reviewed October 23, 2026.