Emergency Family-Law Resources in Connecticut
Official starting points for immediate safety, interim custody orders, protective orders, and Connecticut DCF.
Temporary orders involving children
Connecticut does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Emergency hearings are limited. Use the Superior Court interim procedure and forms, and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.
A parent can request interim custody / parenting time through the Superior Court procedure. For an immediate threat, a civil restraining order petition is a separate, faster route.
Protective orders (CGS 46b-15)
Connecticut's primary domestic-violence protective order is the civil restraining order under CGS 46b-15. The ex parte order is effective for 14 days (extendable 14 more); a final order may last up to 1 year. There is no filing fee. Obey every term; only the court can change it.
Connecticut child protective (DCF)
Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) at 1-800-842-2288 (24/7) or 911 for immediate. Mandated reporters must report within 12 hours. An unsubstantiated report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end custody or parenting time.
- Connecticut restraining orders — CGS 46b-15
- CGS 46b-56 — custody / best interests
- Connecticut DCF — Contact
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the clerk of the Connecticut Superior Court handling your case.