Courts & Types
Family Court
The kinds of cases family court decides, and how to approach them without a lawyer.
Local rules vary: Some states call it probate and family court, domestic relations court, or handle family matters inside the general trial court.
What family court decides
Divorce and legal separation, child custody and parenting time, child support and alimony, paternity, protective orders between family or household members, and in many states adoption and guardianship of children.
What makes it different
Judges decide custody based on the best interests of the child. Many family courts require a parenting class, mediation, or financial disclosure forms before a hearing. Most self-represented litigants are in family court, so courts often have the most forms and help here.
Preparing
- Use the court's official forms; family courts nearly always publish them.
- Complete financial statements carefully. They are sworn documents.
- Keep a calm, dated record of parenting schedules, missed visits, and payments.
- Bring copies for the judge and the other party.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Family law varies widely by state.