Family Courts, established by law in 1965, are dedicated to providing a just, efficient, cost-effective, and accessible place to resolve legal issues concerning families and children. These specialized courts play a crucial role in addressing sensitive matters that impact family life.
Matters Involving Children
A significant part of the family court system deals with legal cases related to children. These encompass a wide range of situations, including:
- Delinquency: Cases where children are accused of acts that would be crimes if committed by adults.
- Status Offenses: Actions that are illegal only for minors, such as truancy or running away from home.
- Abuse and Neglect: Situations where children are harmed or not properly cared for by their parents or guardians.
- Termination of Parental Rights: Legal proceedings to permanently end the legal rights of parents to their children.
- Adoption: The process of legally becoming the parent of a child who was born to other parents.
- Guardianships: Designating a legal guardian to care for a child when parents are unable to do so.
- Detention: Decisions about holding a child in custody pending court hearings.
Domestic Relations Cases
Family courts also handle domestic relations cases, which are legal matters arising from family relationships. These include:
- Divorce: The legal process of ending a marriage.
- Child Support: Legal orders for financial support of children by their parents.
- Paternity: Establishing the legal father of a child.
- Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Cases: Disputes involving child custody that cross state or national borders.
- Miscellaneous Custody Matters: Other disagreements or legal actions related to the care and control of children.
Domestic Violence Proceedings
Addressing domestic violence is another critical function of family courts. These cases involve:
- Requests for Civil Restraining Orders: Individuals seeking court orders to protect themselves from family members who are causing harm or threats.
- Offenses of Abuse of Family and Household Members: Criminal charges against individuals accused of abusing family or household members.
- Felony Charges Against Household Members: Serious criminal charges, limited to offenses committed against family or household members, that are heard within the family court context.
Other Areas of Jurisdiction
Beyond these core areas, family courts also have jurisdiction over:
- Civil Commitment Cases: Legal processes for the involuntary hospitalization and treatment of individuals with mental illness.
- Guardianships of Adults: Appointing legal guardians for adults who are unable to manage their own affairs.
- Adult Abuse Cases: Cases involving the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of adults.
Connecting with the Family Court
To get in touch with the family court in your area, you can find contact information specific to your local circuit.
Explore Family Court Programs
There are various Family Court Programs available that offer support and resources. You can also learn about Family Court Volunteer Opportunities to contribute to the court’s mission.
Kids First Initiative
The Kids First program, designed to educate families navigating divorce, welcomes volunteers to lead children’s groups.
Access Court Forms
You can Download necessary forms for your family court case online.
Understanding Court Fees
Be aware that court fees may apply for filing, documentation, and other family court services. Adobe Reader is needed to view the fee schedule.
Guidance on Divorce Procedures
For detailed information on initiating a divorce case, resources are available to guide you through the process.
Obtaining Protective Orders
Learn the steps to secure a Family Court Protective Order if you are experiencing domestic violence.
Navigating Juvenile Cases
If you are involved in a juvenile case, resources can help you prepare for family court hearings.
Directory of Family Court Judges
A listing of judges with brief biographies is available for your reference.
