Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA)

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A uniform act that, as of September 11, 2009, has been adopted by every state except Massachusetts and Vermont and is the vehicle through which foreign child custody judgments are enforced.  The act is designed to prevent jurisdictional forum shopping  based upon a favorable child custody award.  The act provides a mechanism to obtain and enforce custody and visitation orders across state lines.  It protects child abuse victims and victims of domestic violence.