Understanding Family Court
Family Court includes different kinds of cases and processes, so there is no single timeline that fits everyone. This library is designed to help families and teens understand common terms, practical questions, and where to find official information about the type of case they are dealing with.
Start Here
What Is Family Court?
A basic overview of the kinds of matters Family Court handles and where to find official court information.
Who Might Be in the Courtroom?
An introduction to common roles you may encounter, with links to official explanations.
Before You Go to Court
A practical checklist of location, documents, accessibility, interpretation, and other logistics to confirm before an appearance.
Court Processes
Custody & Visitation
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about custody and visitation cases.
Child Support
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about child support.
Family Offense / Orders of Protection
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about family offense cases and orders of protection.
Child Protective Proceedings
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about child protective cases.
Juvenile Delinquency
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about juvenile delinquency matters.
Guardianship
Links to official information, forms, and legal-help resources about guardianship for children and youth.
Practical Questions
What Should I Bring?
A checklist that can vary by case type — directs users to official court guidance.
What If I Need an Interpreter?
How to find official information about language-access services.
Where Can I Find Legal Help?
A direct path into verified legal aid, court help centers, and supervised clinics.
Where Are the Forms?
Links to official New York Family Court and DIY forms.
For Teens
A dedicated section for young people who are involved with Family Court or trying to understand what is happening around them.
For Parents & Caregivers
A practical starting point for adults looking for court information, community services, and reliable next-step resources.