Emergency Family-Law Resources in Hawaii
Official starting points for immediate safety, interim custody orders, and Temporary Restraining Orders.
Temporary orders involving children
Hawaii does not promise same-day rulings on any private interim filing. Emergency hearings are limited. Use the Family Court interim procedure and forms, and confirm the receiving court's local intake and deadlines.
A parent can request an interim custody order through the Family Court procedure. For an immediate threat, a Temporary Restraining Order is a separate, faster route.
Temporary Restraining Orders (HRS Ch. 586)
Hawaii's domestic-violence protective order is the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), filed under HRS Chapter 586. An ex parte TRO may be granted without notice, lasting up to 180 days. At the hearing the court may convert it into an order for protection for any reasonable period (Family Court). Violating an order is a misdemeanor.
Hawaii child protective (DHS)
Reports of suspected abuse or neglect go to Hawaii DHS (Department of Human Services) / Child Welfare Services; call 911 for immediate. The Hawaii Child Abuse and Neglect line is 808-832-5300 (Oahu) / 1-888-380-3088 (neighbor islands). An unsubstantiated report does not prove it was knowingly false and does not by itself end custody or visitation.
- HRS § 586-4 — Temporary Restraining Order
- Hawaii DHS — Child Welfare Services
- Hawaii State Judiciary — Family Court
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the Family Court clerk handling your case.