Family Courts
Established by statute in 1965, the Family Court’s mission is to provide a fair, speedy, economical, and accessible forum for the resolution of matters involving families and children.
Children
The Family Court hears legal matters involving children. These include:
- Delinquency.
- Status offenses.
- Abuse and neglect.
- Termination of parental rights.
- Adoption.
- Guardianships.
- Detention.
Domestic Relations
The Family Court also hears domestic relations cases, including:
- Divorce.
- Child support.
- Paternity.
- Uniform child custody jurisdiction cases.
- Miscellaneous custody matters.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence cases include:
- Requests for civil restraining orders involving family members.
- Persons charged with the offense of abuse of family and household members.
- Felony charges limited to offenses against household members.
Other Cases
The Family Court also hears civil commitment cases, guardianships of adults, and adult abuse cases.
Contact the Family Courts
Find contact information for the court in your circuit:
Family Court Programs
Learn about Family Court Programs and becoming a Family Court Volunteer.
Kids First
Kids First, an education program for families going through divorce, needs caring and reliable people to facilitate children’s groups.
Court Forms
Download forms for your case.
Court Fees
There may be court fees for filing, documentation and other services.
Viewing the fee schedule requires Adobe Reader, which is free.
Divorce
Get information about how to proceed with a divorce case.
Protective Orders
Learn how to get a Family Court Protective Order.
Juvenile Cases
Find out how to prepare for a Family Court hearing if you are involved in a juvenile case.
Family Court Judges
A listing and short biographies of judges.