Hawaii family-law guide · reviewed September 20, 2026
Preparing for Hawaii Family Court
A careful statewide checklist that sends circuit- and court-specific fees, forms, and procedure to the Family Court.
Legal information, not legal advice. Hawaii law and local practice can change. Verify forms, fees, filing methods, service, and hearing procedure with the Family Court receiving your case.
Before filing
- Identify the correct Hawaii Family Court and circuit
- Ask the Family Court clerk for current forms, filing method, and local rules
- The divorce filing fee is $215 without minor children and $265 with minor children (incl. the $50 Kids First surcharge) — confirm the current amount
- If you cannot afford fees, ask the clerk about a Request to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
- Use the Hawaii State Judiciary / Family Court forms (courts.state.hi.us)
- Confirm how emergency / interim requests are presented
- Serve the other party in the manner the court rules require and file a proof of service
Before the hearing
- Read every notice and temporary order
- Meet the actual exhibit, witness, disclosure, and subpoena deadlines
- Confirm the courtroom, remote link, check-in, security, and camera rules
- Prepare a short list of requested orders and the evidence supporting each
- Bring only what the court permits; arrange child care unless the court directs otherwise
Official sources reviewed September 20, 2026
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the Family Court clerk handling your case.