Introduction
Greetings, readers! Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Kings County Family Court. As a resident of Brooklyn, you may find yourself navigating this court for various family-related matters. Whether you’re seeking legal protection, resolving child custody issues, or handling domestic violence cases, we have compiled crucial information to empower you throughout the process.
This article aims to provide you with a clear understanding of the Kings County Family Court system, its jurisdiction, services, and procedures. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel more informed and prepared to navigate your legal journey confidently.
Understanding Kings County Family Court’s Jurisdiction
Kings County Family Court has exclusive jurisdiction over a wide range of family-related matters within the boundaries of Brooklyn. These include:
Child Custody and Support
The court handles child custody disputes, including issues of legal and physical custody, as well as child support matters, ensuring the well-being and financial stability of children.
Domestic Violence
Kings County Family Court provides protection orders and legal remedies for victims of domestic violence, safeguarding their safety and protecting them from further harm.
Child Protection
The court has jurisdiction over child protection cases, intervening to protect children from neglect, abuse, or abandonment and providing services to support vulnerable families.
Paternity and Adoption
The court handles matters of paternity establishment and adoption, ensuring the legal rights of parents and children and facilitating the creation of stable and loving family units.
Essential Services Provided by Kings County Family Court
Beyond its jurisdictional responsibilities, Kings County Family Court offers a range of essential services to families and individuals:
Legal Representation
The court provides free or low-cost legal representation to low-income individuals with family law matters, ensuring equal access to justice for all.
Mediation and Counseling
The court offers mediation services to help families resolve disputes peacefully and maintain healthy relationships. Additionally, counseling services are available to provide support and guidance to individuals and families facing challenges.
Case Management
Case managers are assigned to families to provide ongoing support, monitor compliance with court orders, and connect them with necessary resources within the community.
Navigating Court Procedures and Representation
Understanding the court process is crucial for effective navigation. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Initiate a Case
To initiate a case, file a petition with the court. The petition should clearly state the reason for your request and provide supporting evidence.
Service of Process
Once the petition is filed, the other party (known as the respondent) will be served with the legal papers. The respondent has a set amount of time to respond to the petition.
Court Hearing
After the respondent has filed a response, the court will schedule a hearing. At the hearing, both parties will present their arguments and evidence. The judge will then make a decision based on the evidence presented.
Enforcement of Orders
If a court order is not followed, the court can take enforcement actions, such as fines, jail time, or modification of the order.
Table of Filing Fees
| Filing Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Petition for Family Offense | $35 |
| Petition for Custody | $75 |
| Petition for Support | $75 |
| Modification or Enforcement of Order | $25 |
| Order of Protection | $0 |
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with invaluable insights into Kings County Family Court. Remember, you’re not alone in your journey. If you have any questions or need legal assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to the court for support.
Additionally, we invite you to explore our other articles for more information on family law matters and related topics. Stay informed, seek support, and navigate Kings County Family Court with confidence.
FAQ about Kings County Family Court
What is Kings County Family Court?
Kings County Family Court is a court that handles legal matters related to families, including divorce, child custody, and child support.
Where is Kings County Family Court located?
Kings County Family Court is located at 360 Adams Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201.
What are the hours of operation for Kings County Family Court?
Kings County Family Court is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
What types of cases does Kings County Family Court handle?
Kings County Family Court handles a wide range of family law cases, including:
- Divorce
- Child custody
- Child support
- Paternity
- Domestic violence
- Family offenses
- Adoptions
How do I file a case in Kings County Family Court?
To file a case in Kings County Family Court, you must complete a petition and file it with the court clerk. You can find the necessary forms on the court’s website or at the courthouse.
What is the fee to file a case in Kings County Family Court?
The filing fee for a family law case in Kings County Family Court is $210.
What happens after I file a case in Kings County Family Court?
After you file a case in Kings County Family Court, the court will schedule a hearing. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case to a judge.
What if I need help with my case?
If you need help with your case, you can contact the Legal Aid Society of New York City. Legal Aid provides free legal services to low-income New Yorkers.
What are the contact information for Kings County Family Court?
The contact information for Kings County Family Court is:
- Phone: (718) 643-5400
- Fax: (718) 643-5467
- Website: https://www.nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/family/kings/
