New York court preparation · reviewed August 21, 2026
Preparing for New York Family Court
A careful statewide checklist that sends court- and county-specific fees, forms, and procedure to the receiving court.
Legal information, not legal advice. New York law and local practice can change. Verify forms, fees, filing methods, service, and hearing procedure with the court receiving your case.
Before filing
- Identify the correct court — Family Court (custody/visitation, support, paternity) vs Supreme Court (divorce)
- Ask the clerk for current forms, filing method (paper vs. e-file), and local rules
- There is no filing fee for a Family Court case, including custody/visitation
- If you cannot afford fees, ask for a fee waiver (relief under CPLR 1101) with a sworn affidavit
- Confirm how emergency (ex parte) submissions are presented
- Serve the other party in the manner the 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 device 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
No invented statewide numbers. New York has Family Courts and Supreme Courts in every county with varying local rules, forms, fees, and standing orders. This page intentionally does not publish unsupported universal amounts, response times, or hearing deadlines.
Official sources reviewed August 21, 2026
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the receiving court.