Arizona § 25-803 - Persons who may originate proceedings; legal decision-making; parenting time; conciliation court
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-803 — Persons who may originate proceedings; legal decision-making; parenting time; conciliation court, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 25-803. Persons who may originate proceedings; legal decision-making; parenting time; conciliation court
A. Proceedings to establish the maternity or paternity of a child or children and to compel support under this article may be commenced by any of the following:
1. The mother.
2. The father.
3. The guardian, conservator or best friend of a child or children born out of wedlock.
4. A public welfare official or agency of the county where the child or children reside or may be found.
5. The state pursuant to section 25-509.
B. An adult may bring an action to establish the adult's biological parent.
C. Any party to a proceeding under this article other than the state may request that legal decision-making and specific parenting time be determined as a part of the proceeding. When paternity is established the court may award legal decision-making and parenting time as provided in section 25-408. The attorney general or county attorney shall not seek or defend any ancillary matters such as legal decision-making or parenting time.
D. In any case in which paternity is established the parent with whom the child has resided for the greater part of the last six months shall have legal decision-making unless otherwise ordered by the court.
E. The services of the conciliation court may be used in regard to disputed matters of legal decision-making and parenting time.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 25-803
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-803 cover?
Section 25-803 ("Persons who may originate proceedings; legal decision-making; parenting time; conciliation court") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 25-803?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 25-803" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 25-803 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.