Guardianship

Guardianship is the legal right to care for and make decisions for a child or another adult. Explore our guides, videos, and resources on the types of guardianship and how the process works.

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Videos

What is the Best Interests of the Child Standard?

This video explains what the legal standard “best interests of the child” means in New York Family Court.

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View All Short, 2-3 minute videos that explain complicated family law topics using plain language.

Guided Court Forms

Custody/Visitation Petition [GF-17]

This is a link to the Petition for Custody/Visitation on the court's website. This form is generally used to start a new custody and/or visitation case. It should not be used if you already have a custody or visitation order from a court.

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Notice of Motion [GF-14]

This online program from Family Legal Care guides you through filling out a Notice of Motion. This form is notice of a written request made by a party to the court for specific relief. A Notice of Motion is typically filed with an Affidavit in Support. The Affidavit in Support explains why the court should grant the motion.

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Order to Show Cause [GF-1]

This online program from Family Legal Care guides you through filling out an Order to Show Cause. This form is an emergency motion and should be submitted with an Affidavit in Support. The Affidavit in Support explains to the court the reason you are filing and why the court should grant your request.

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Affirmation in Support

This online program from Family Legal Care guides you through filling out an Affirmation in Support. The Affirmation in Support is used when filing a Notice of Motion or an Order to Show Cause. The Affirmation in Support explains to the court the reason you are filing and why the court should grant your request.

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View All A free program that guides you step-by-step through Family Court forms and generates completed forms in PDF or Word format.

Webinars

New York Family Law & Court Basics

Topics covered include: family law and court basics in New York Family Court.

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Know Your Rights: New York Family Law Basics

Topics covered include: Paternity and parentage, child support, custody and visitation, guardianship, and orders of protection.

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Trial Resource Guides

Stages and Timeline for Common Family Court Cases

Although every case is different, this guide explains the general stages and timeline for certain types of Family Court cases.
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How to Fill Out Common Family Court Forms

This guide will help you understand some of the most common Family Court forms and give you tips on how to fill them out.
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Preparing for Family Court

This guide explains what to expect before, during, and after your court date, whether your case is in person or virtual.
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Common Reports Used in Family Court

Family Court often uses reports to help make decisions, such as what is in a child’s best interests. This guide explains common reports used in custody, visitation, and family offense cases.
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Witnesses

A witness is a person who gives testimony under oath. This guide will help you understand how to use witnesses in your Family Court case.
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View All Short, practical guides that explain rules, procedures, and what to expect in court for parents and caregivers who are representing themselves in Family Court.
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