FL-300 Request for Order (California Family Court)
When you need a judge to weigh in on custody, support, or another family matter, the FL-300 Request for Order California family courts require is how you get that conversation started. Here's what it is, who needs it, and how to get through it without losing your mind.
Short answer: This page helps you prepare the FL-300 — the California court form that asks a judge to make a decision about custody, support, or another family law matter.
What this page does
It explains what the FL-300 is, when you need to file it, and what the court needs you to say. It connects you to a guided tool that walks through every section of the form in plain English — so you're not guessing.
How it works
- Read what the FL-300 is and whether your situation requires one.
- See the common reasons to file — custody changes, support requests, enforcing existing orders.
- Use the guided tool to fill out each section with prompts that explain what the court actually wants.
- Print the completed form and file it at your local courthouse.
- The clerk schedules a hearing, typically 20–25 days out. You'll serve the other party before that date.
Who this is for
People in California who need a judge to make or change an order about custody, visitation, child support, or spousal support — and who don't have an attorney to help them do it.
Common questions
Do I need a lawyer to file an FL-300?
No. You can file on your own. California courts allow self-represented filers. This tool walks you through every section of the form so you know what to write before you show up at the courthouse.
Can I use the FL-300 to change an existing custody or support order?
Yes — modifying an existing order is one of the most common reasons people file. You'll need to show that something has changed since the original order was made. The form has a section specifically for this.
I was served with an FL-300. What do I do?
You have the right to respond in writing before the hearing date. Read the papers carefully — they'll include the hearing date and what the other party is asking for. You can file a response with the court explaining your side. Don't ignore it.
How long until I get a hearing after filing?
Typically 20–25 days. The court clerk sets the date when you file. You are responsible for serving the other party with the paperwork before that date — the order won't be enforceable until they've been served.
What if I can't locate the other party to serve them?
Service still has to happen, but California allows substitute methods — leaving papers with another adult at their home, or in some cases service by mail or publication. The court clerk or a process server can walk you through the options.
What is the FL-300 Request for Order in California?
The FL-300 is a court filing that opens a hearing. You're telling the court: here's my situation, here's what I'm asking for, and here's why. A judge will read it and schedule a date where both sides can be heard. The FL-300 Request for Order California courts process is one of the most common filings in family law — but it still needs to be done right.
It doesn't resolve your case on its own — it starts a process. But it's often the most important document you'll file, because it sets what the hearing is even about.
Who needs to file an FL-300?
You need the FL-300 if any of the following are true:
- You need the court to make or change a custody or visitation order
- You're asking for child support or spousal support (or asking to change an existing amount)
- You need a temporary restraining order attached to a family law case
- You want to enforce an existing court order the other party isn't following
- You've been served with a Request for Order and need to respond
Both the person filing (the petitioner) and the person responding use related forms. The FL-300 is typically filed by whoever is asking the court to act.
How to fill out the FL-300 form (step-by-step)
The FL-300 has several sections. At minimum, you'll need to explain:
- What orders you're asking for — be specific. "More time with my kids" isn't an order. "Primary physical custody with visitation every other weekend" is.
- Why now — the court wants to know what changed, or why an existing arrangement isn't working.
- Supporting facts — dates, incidents, agreements, and anything the judge needs to understand your situation without you being in the room.
If child support is involved, you'll also need to file an FL-150 Income and Expense Declaration alongside this form.
What happens after you file an FL-300?
The FL-300 is not a place to vent — it's a place to be precise. Judges read dozens of these. The filings that get taken seriously are clear, specific, and backed by facts.
- Write down specific dates and incidents, not general patterns
- Ask only for what you actually need — courts treat over-reaching requests with skepticism
- If you're modifying an existing order, attach a copy of the current order
- Make sure your address or a safe contact address is correct — the court will mail notices there
Once you file, the clerk sets a hearing date — typically 20–25 days out — and you'll need to have the other party served before that date. Knowing how to fill out FL-300 before you show up at the courthouse saves a round trip. You can file FL-300 online using SharpeSystem's guided system, which walks you through every field and flags anything that could cause your filing to be returned or denied.
Ready to start? SharpeSystem guides you through the FL-300 step by step — in plain English, at your pace. No attorney required.
You can prepare your FL-300 Request for Order online using the guided system below.
File a Request for Order (FL-300)