What Is Queens Family Court?
The Queens Family Court is part of the New York State Unified Court System and specifically handles cases related to family law. This includes issues such as child custody and visitation, child and spousal support, paternity, domestic violence (including orders of protection), neglect or abuse cases, foster care, and adoption.
Unlike criminal court, family court is civil in nature, meaning its goal is not to punish but to resolve conflicts and ensure the well-being of children and families. The court is located at 151-20 Jamaica Avenue in Jamaica, Queens, and is easily accessible by public transportation. It’s a busy place, often filled with parents, guardians, children, attorneys, social workers, and judges all trying to work through sensitive and sometimes urgent legal matters.
Common Types of Cases Heard in Queens Family Court
- Custody and Visitation: Perhaps the most emotionally charged cases are those involving child custody. Whether two parents are divorcing or were never married, the court’s main goal is to determine what arrangement serves the best interests of the child. Visitation, also called parenting time, is usually decided alongside custody and allows the non-custodial parent time with the child.
- Child and Spousal Support: If one parent is not living with the child, they may be required to pay child support. The court uses income information and standard guidelines to decide the amount. In some cases, spousal support (or maintenance) may also be ordered.
- Orders of Protection: In cases of domestic violence or abuse, individuals can request an order of protection through Queens Family Court. These orders can legally restrict an abuser’s contact with the victim and help keep the family safe.
- Neglect and Abuse Cases (ACS Cases): When a child’s safety is in question, the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) may get involved. The court can decide whether a child should remain with their parents, be placed in foster care, or receive court-ordered services.
- Paternity: Establishing the legal father of a child is essential for many reasons, including child support and custody rights. Queens Family Court can order DNA testing and issue legal paternity findings.
- Adoption and Guardianship: The court also handles the legal process of adoption and the appointment of legal guardians for minors when biological parents cannot care for them.
What to Expect When You Go to Court
Walking into Queens Family Court for the first time can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never been to court before. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:
- Security Screening: Like all courthouses, you’ll go through a metal detector and bag check upon entering.
- Clerks and Help Centers: If you’re unsure where to go, staff members and help centers in the building can direct you.
- Waiting Time: Be prepared to wait. Family court cases are often delayed due to the volume of cases on the docket.
- Informal Atmosphere: Although it’s still a court of law, the setting is usually more relaxed than criminal court. Judges don’t wear robes, and hearings may feel more like discussions than trials.
- No Jury: All decisions in Queens Family Court are made by judges or magistrates—there are no jury trials.
- Representation: You have the right to hire an attorney, and in some cases (such as abuse, neglect, or where liberty is at stake), the court may appoint one if you can’t afford one.
Tips for Navigating Queens Family Court
- Be Prepared: Bring all relevant documents with you—court papers, financial statements, letters, evidence, etc. Being organized helps your case move forward more smoothly.
- Stay Calm and Respectful: Emotions can run high in family court, but maintaining your composure will serve you well. Judges appreciate respectful behavior.
- Dress Appropriately: While there’s no strict dress code, wearing something clean and presentable is always a good idea when appearing before a judge.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to go through security and find your courtroom.
- Seek Legal Advice: Even if you can’t afford an attorney, there are resources available. Legal Aid Society, Queens Legal Services, and other nonprofits often have lawyers available for free consultations.
Resources Available at Queens Family Court
- Family Court Help Center: Offers information on procedures and forms.
- Legal Aid and Nonprofits: On-site or nearby legal services may offer free representation in qualifying cases.
- Mediation Services: Some cases, especially custody and visitation, may benefit from mediation to reach mutual agreement outside of court orders.
- Domestic Violence Counselors: Assistance is available for victims of abuse, including help with safety planning and legal paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Family court is not where most people imagine themselves spending time, but when life’s challenges lead you there, it’s important to know you’re not alone. The Queens Family Court is there to help families resolve disputes, protect children, and enforce legal responsibilities. While the process can be emotionally exhausting and legally complex, being informed and prepared can significantly reduce the stress.
Whether you're navigating a custody dispute, trying to collect child support, or seeking protection from domestic violence, the Queens Family Court serves as a critical pillar of justice for thousands of families across the borough. Understanding your rights, options, and the resources available to you can make all the difference as you move forward.