Divorced parents may feel overwhelmed about the process of filing for child custody. There are many decisions to be made during this time–from deciding to hire a lawyer to figuring out a custody arrangement. Because you don’t have the time to waste worrying about filing for custody, here are some basic steps to making this simple.

1. Discuss your case with legal counsel. Before you decide if you want to hire an attorney, sit down and talk with one. You can discuss your case and ask some questions about representation. This should give you a good idea if you need a lawyer.

2. Consider if you want to hire an attorney. After meeting with a lawyer, you should decide if you want one to help with your case. This will depend entirely on your circumstances and if you think it would benefit you. You don’t need an attorney to file, and you can always hire one at any time.

3. Go to the courthouse. The court where you file (also the court where you file for divorce) will have a lot of the information that you need. You can find the papers you need there and also ask any questions you have. Some of the courthouses even have some help sections.

4. Fill out your papers. The court can give you direction about filling out your papers. Take the time to figure out what papers you need and make sure you fill them out correctly. You can also find some of the forms online.

5. Come up with your custody agreement. You need to think about what your custody and visitation schedule and the other issues in your agreement. Some of the papers you fill out will ask for this information and the rest of the information you need so you can be prepared.

6. Find sources of help. You will have questions along this process–look everywhere you can for answers. There is information online, at the courthouse, in support groups, and other places. You can find the answers you need.

Throughout all of this, try to remain positive. It can be easy to get overwhelmed–but take things day by day and you’ll get through it. Focus on the end when you’ll get to spend the time you want with your child.

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