Legal processes typically require the filing of certain forms and other important documents. In the practice area of family law, there are forms required for nearly every action. You must either fill out and file the forms yourself (often called self-help), or your attorney will take charge of the process, depending on which particular action you are contemplating.
Forms can include any document filed to the court by either party. They can include various documents such as affidavits, waivers, motions for court orders, and parenting plans. The type of form required will depend on the state where you live and the legal issue you face.
This article provides links to each state's family law forms.
What Does Family Law Cover?
Family law touches several areas of major life decisions. Family law includes marriage, the emancipation of minor children, adoption, parental rights (also called parentage), divorce, child custody, child support, name changes, and domestic violence protective orders. Almost all of these legal issues need filled-out forms. It's important to know which type of form your legal issue requires.
You can handle small claims and minor legal issues on your own. But, depending on the complexity of your legal issue, you may want to seek the help of a family law attorney. Experienced legal professionals can help you navigate the court rules of filing and ensure you meet each requirement promptly.
For more information on frequently asked family law questions, please visit FindLaw's page on Family Law FAQs.
Overview: State Requirements for Filing Forms
All states have their own requirements for filing forms. You can file some forms yourself (often called self-help), while others are more legally complex and may require the help of a legal professional. If you want to be self-represented, you should research if your state has a self-help center available for assistance.
Some states may require you to file forms to the court in person, while others may allow you to e-file online. Some states offer fillable, interactive online documents. Some states may also require a filing fee or a cover sheet.
You will need to check the court rules of your state to ensure you comply with your jurisdiction's requirements. Keep in mind that there may also be local requirements to follow in addition to statewide requirements.
Family Law Forms by State
Below you'll find links to family law forms by state, hosted by the state court's website. Please visit FindLaw's State Family Laws section for more information and resources.
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Get Professional Help With Your Most Pressing Family Law Concerns
Whether you're getting divorced, trying to get another parent to pay their share of child support, adopting a child, getting a name change, or needing a protective order for a domestic violence situation, you'll probably want expert assistance with such important matters. Additionally, many of these issues involve high emotions. Getting an experienced legal professional who can handle legal information and details can help provide peace of mind during a stressful time.
A family law attorney will understand the process and can help by giving helpful legal advice. Litigants can help advocate for you in court in addition to helping ensure you file each legal form correctly and on time.
Get started by contacting an experienced family law attorney in your area for legal help today.