Family Court Playbook · Step 4 of 12
How to Write a Declaration for Family Court
Structure, tone, and techniques for writing effective MC-030 declarations in California
What is a declaration?
A declaration is a written statement of facts, signed under penalty of perjury. In California family court, it's how you tell the judge what happened and why you're asking for orders. It's filed on form MC-030 (Declaration) or as part of FL-320 (Responsive Declaration).
When you need one
You need a declaration whenever you file a Request for Order (FL-300) or respond to one (FL-320). The declaration is where you make your case — the forms themselves just identify what you're asking for, but the declaration explains why.
From your words to legal language
AI transforms plain English into court declarations
What you tell us
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Structure
Opening paragraph (perjury clause), background facts (chronological), specific incidents (dates, details), impact on children, what you're asking for (prayer).
Be specific
Common mistakes
Being too vague, including opinions instead of facts, emotional language that undermines credibility, not including dates, not organizing chronologically.
Never lie in a declaration
MC-030 vs. FL-320
MC-030 is a general declaration you can attach to any motion. FL-320 (Responsive Declaration to RFO) is specifically for responding to a Request for Order — it has built-in sections for custody, support, and property issues.
Let AI write your declaration
Our guided tool helps you prepare a declaration in your own words and fills out your court paperwork.
Start your filing — $129A family law attorney will always have the biggest impact on your case. If you can afford one, we encourage you to hire one.