Family law covers many situations: divorce, custody, support, adoption, domestic violence and more. Knowing what type of case you have and where to start can make a stressful time easier to manage.
Divorce and separation
Divorce ends a marriage and addresses property division, spousal support, custody and child support. Legal separation allows spouses to live apart and have a court address those issues without ending the marriage. See our guides to how divorce works and separation agreements.
Child custody and visitation
Custody covers decision-making and where a child lives. Courts decide based on the child's best interests and encourage parenting plans. Modifications are possible when circumstances change significantly. See our guides on custody basics and modification.
Child support and spousal support
- Child support is calculated using state guidelines based on income and parenting time.
- Spousal support, also called alimony, depends on factors such as marriage length and need.
- Orders can be enforced through wage withholding and other tools.
- See our guides to child support and alimony.
Paternity and parentage
Establishing legal parentage affects custody, support and inheritance. Unmarried parents may sign an acknowledgment or ask a court to determine paternity. See our paternity guide.
Adoption and guardianship
- Adoption creates a permanent legal parent-child relationship.
- Stepparent adoption requires consent or termination of the other parent's rights.
- Guardianship appoints someone to care for a child or an incapacitated adult.
- See our guides to adoption, stepparent adoption and guardianship.
Domestic violence and protective orders
Courts can issue protective orders that require a person to stay away and stop contact. If you are in danger, call 911 or a domestic violence hotline. Legal aid and advocates provide free help. See our guide on restraining orders.
Where to start
- Identify the main issue you face and any deadlines.
- Visit your state court's family law self-help page.
- Contact legal aid or a bar referral service if you need a lawyer.
- Consider mediation for agreements between parents.
- Gather documents and keep a timeline.
- Seek immediate help if safety is at risk.
Family law touches many life events
Family law includes divorce, custody, support, paternity, adoption, guardianship, protective orders and some estate issues. Cases often overlap, such as a divorce with custody and support questions. Knowing the main categories helps you find forms, programs and professionals suited to your situation.
Finding the right court and forms
Family cases are heard in family, domestic relations or superior courts depending on the state. Most courts offer self-help centers, standard forms and instructions online. Starting with the court's website is often the fastest way to see what documents are required, what fees apply and whether you can request a fee waiver.
Real-life scenarios
- A parent seeking child support uses a state agency to establish paternity and an order without hiring a lawyer.
- A grandparent caring for a grandchild learns about guardianship options and files with court forms.
- A person fleeing violence gets a protective order and temporary custody help from a domestic violence legal clinic.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing in the wrong court.
- Missing hearing dates.
- Using forms from another state.
- Not including all required documents.
- Ignoring safety planning when violence is involved.
- Assuming orders cannot be changed later.
Questions to ask a professional
- Which court handles my case?
- What forms and fees apply?
- Can I request a fee waiver?
- Is mediation required?
- What are my options if I cannot afford a lawyer?
A practical action plan
- Identify the type of case and any deadlines.
- Visit the court website and self-help center.
- Gather documents and evidence.
- Contact legal aid or a lawyer if needed.
- Attend hearings and follow orders.
Terms you may hear
- Domestic relations: the court area for family matters.
- Guardian ad litem: a person representing a child's interests.
- Protective order: an order to stop harassment or abuse.
- Paternity: legal fatherhood.
- Temporary orders: orders effective during a case.
Practical considerations
Family cases often involve both legal and emotional work. Gathering documents, creating calendars of parenting time and keeping communications civil can influence outcomes more than courtroom drama. Courts expect parents to focus on children's needs and encourage settlement where safe. Learn your local court's procedures, attend any required classes and arrive prepared with copies of your documents.
Special situations and exceptions
Some cases need urgent attention. If there is domestic violence, child abduction risk or sudden loss of housing or income, seek emergency help through advocates, hotlines and the court clerk. Temporary orders can address immediate needs while the larger case proceeds. Keep records of incidents and follow safety plans, and talk to legal aid or a domestic violence organization about your options.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer for a family law case?
It depends on complexity and conflict. Many people use self-help resources for simple cases.
Are family court hearings public?
Many are, but some are sealed for privacy.
Can family court orders be changed?
Yes, when circumstances change substantially.
What if I cannot afford filing fees?
Ask about fee waivers.
How do I find family law forms?
Your state court website or self-help center.
Are family court records public?
Many are, with some sealed for privacy.
Can I handle a family law case myself?
Many people do, especially simple cases.
Where can I find help for free?
Court self-help centers and legal aid programs.