What should I include in a custody log?

Record dates, scheduled and actual exchange times, relevant communications, care observations and expenses. Identify supporting files and distinguish what you observed from what someone told you. Include ordinary exchanges as well as late or missed visits.

Does my co-parent need an account?

No. MyCourtDocs is private documentation software for one parent. Your co-parent does not have access to your account. Sharing selected records is your choice; ask an attorney about disclosure requirements in your case.

Can I keep a visitation log on my phone?

Yes. MyCourtDocs works on phone and desktop. You can keep timestamped entries and attach photos, screenshots and files. Record the event time separately if the event happened before you created the entry.

What does the court-format PDF include?

It includes a caption, chronological log, numbered exhibits, exhibit index, page X of Y and a declaration for the parent to review and sign. The format does not verify facts or guarantee acceptance. Keep original evidence and check local filing requirements.

Is there a free custody log template?

Yes. The custody log template page offers a free printable daily journal, exchange log and expense log, plus a CSV download. No email is required to use that resource.

Private custody documentation

Custody Log App

Custody logs scattered across notes apps, paper and texts can be difficult to reconstruct. MyCourtDocs gives one parent a timestamped timeline on phone or desktop. Log a brief custody event in under a minute, attach screenshots or photos, and keep related material together without needing a co-parent account.

MyCourtDocs is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Courts decide what records they accept.

What to record in a custody log

A custody log is a dated account of parenting time and relevant events, not a collection of conclusions about the other parent. Choose details that help explain what happened and identify the original material supporting your account.

Date and time. Record when the event occurred, the location and when you wrote the note. Explain uncertainty rather than guessing.
Scheduled versus actual exchanges. Keep planned pickup and return times separate from actual arrival times. Note whether a late or missed visit occurred and any notice you received.
Communications. Identify the message date, sender and topic. Preserve the full conversation and distinguish an exact quote from your own summary.
Child wellbeing notes. Describe observable care, appointments or concerns. Separate your observations from a child's statement; avoid diagnoses and do not question children to create evidence.
Expenses. Record the date, amount, purpose and receipt reference. Note reimbursement as requested, pending or received without deciding legal responsibility.

Keep entries factual and neutral

Write observable actions instead of motives: “Pickup scheduled for 6:00 p.m.; arrival at 6:20 p.m.” is more specific than “Never respects the schedule.” Include ordinary on-time exchanges and completed responsibilities too. A balanced record preserves context rather than selecting only disagreements.

If you correct an entry, explain the correction and preserve the underlying source. Do not turn a secondhand report into something you personally witnessed. Our custody documentation guide covers factual writing, and the parenting time log guide focuses on exchanges and schedules.

Why contemporaneous entries help

A short note made near the event can preserve details that become harder to recall later. A creation timestamp helps distinguish when you documented an event from when the event itself occurred. If you enter something days later, record both dates rather than making the note appear contemporaneous.

Timestamps do not prove a statement is true. Retain original messages, receipts and photographs with enough context to explain them. Collect only material you are entitled to keep, and ask your attorney about recording, privacy and disclosure rules.

How MyCourtDocs organizes your records

MyCourtDocs combines a timestamped timeline with an evidence vault for photos, screenshots and files. It works on phone and desktop and is private to one parent; your co-parent does not need an account and cannot access yours. You choose whether to share selected records with an attorney or another intended recipient.

Court-format PDF export organizes a caption, numbered exhibits, an exhibit index, page X of Y and a declaration for the parent to review and sign. A PDF does not authenticate statements or replace original audio, video or other evidence files. Review references, redactions and local requirements before sharing. See evidence for a custody hearing for preparation considerations.

Choose paper or a private app

Start with the free printable custody log and CSV template if paper or a spreadsheet fits your routine. For linked entries and evidence, MyCourtDocs offers a 3-day free trial: $0 today, then $19.99/month or $199/year. Cancel anytime.

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Frequently asked questions

What should I include in a custody log?: Record dates, scheduled and actual exchange times, relevant communications, care observations and expenses. Identify supporting files and distinguish what you observed from what someone told you. Include ordinary exchanges as well as late or missed visits.
Does my co-parent need an account?: No. MyCourtDocs is private documentation software for one parent. Your co-parent does not have access to your account. Sharing selected records is your choice; ask an attorney about disclosure requirements in your case.
Can I keep a visitation log on my phone?: Yes. MyCourtDocs works on phone and desktop. You can keep timestamped entries and attach photos, screenshots and files. Record the event time separately if the event happened before you created the entry.
What does the court-format PDF include?: It includes a caption, chronological log, numbered exhibits, exhibit index, page X of Y and a declaration for the parent to review and sign. The format does not verify facts or guarantee acceptance. Keep original evidence and check local filing requirements.
Is there a free custody log template?: Yes. The custody log template page offers a free printable daily journal, exchange log and expense log, plus a CSV download. No email is required to use that resource.