Chester County Family Court: Everything You Need to Know

If you are going through a family law issue in Chester County, Pennsylvania, you will likely end up in the Chester County Family Court. The court handles a variety of cases related to family law, including divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and more.

What is the Chester County Family Court?

The Chester County Family Court is a division of the Chester County Court of Common Pleas. It is responsible for handling all family law cases that arise within the county.

The court has jurisdiction over a wide range of issues related to family law, including:

  • Divorce
  • Child custody
  • Child support
  • Spousal support/alimony
  • Adoption
  • Paternity
  • Protection from abuse orders (PFA)
  • Juvenile delinquency and dependency cases

How Does the Chester County Family Court Work?

The process for filing a case in the Chester County Family Court varies depending on the type of case you are dealing with. However, most cases begin with the filing of a petition or complaint with the court.

If you are filing for divorce or seeking custody or support orders, you will need to complete certain forms and provide documentation to support your claims. The court will then schedule hearings where both parties can present their arguments and evidence.

If you are involved in a PFA case or juvenile dependency case, there may be additional steps involved such as temporary orders or evaluations by social workers or mental health professionals.

What Should I Expect in the Chester County Family Court?

Going to court can be a stressful and intimidating experience, especially when it involves family law issues. However, it is important to remember that the court is there to help you resolve your legal dispute in a fair and just manner.

You should expect to be treated with respect by court staff and judges, regardless of your background or circumstances. You should also come prepared with all necessary documentation and evidence to support your case.

If you are representing yourself in court, it is important to familiarize yourself with the rules of procedure and evidence so that you can present your case effectively.

Conclusion

The Chester County Family Court plays an important role in resolving family law disputes in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Whether you are dealing with divorce, child custody, or another family law issue, the court is there to help you navigate the legal system and find a resolution that works for everyone involved.

If you need assistance with your family law case, it may be helpful to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the process and advocate for your interests.



Related Links:


1: Family Court | Chester County, PA - Official Website

https://www.chesco.org/567/Family-Court
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Family Court Administration is responsible for divorce/equitable distribution, custody, protection from abuse, and Hearing Officer support. Matters of child and ... HomeGovernmentCourtsCourt AdministrationFamily Court : If you are inquiring about a custody matter, you are strongly encouraged to seek legal advice. If you do not have an attorney, you can reach out to Legal Aid at 877-429-5994 or the Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service at 610-429-1500. Family Court Administration is responsible for divorce/equitable distribution, custody, protection from abuse, and Hearing Officer support. Matters of child and spousal support are handled by the Domestic Relations Office. Divorce and equitable distribution conferences and hearings, custody conferences and support hearings are held on the 5th Floor of the Chester County Justice Center. However, some hearings are scheduled before an assigned judge. All notices will indicate where parties shall report at the designated time. Parties and their lawyers should check in at Room 5402 for custody conferences, long-day support hearings, and divorce conferences and hearings. Parties and their lawyers should check in at Hearing Room A for support hearings. Juvenile Court consists of dependency matters involving the Department of Children, Youth and Family and delinquency matters involving the Juvenile Probation Office.  Dependency Court is located on the 5th floor of the Chester County Justice Center, Hearing Room H.  For questions, call 610-344-6983. Video: A Parent's Guide to Understanding the Pennsylvania Dependent Process Juvenile delinquency matters involve an allegation that a child committed a delinquent act. If your child has been charged with an offense, please contact the Juvenile Probation Office.







3: Family Court | Chester County, PA - Official Website

https://www.chesco.org/315/Family-Court
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Family Court. Child / Spousal Support · Custody Mediation · Custody Information · Chester County Divorce Information · Family Court Filing Fees (Prothontary). HomeGovernmentCourtsCourt AdministrationFamily Court Chester County Divorce Information Family Court Filing Fees (Prothontary) Authorities, Boards & Commissions Authorities, Boards & Commissions Government Websites by CivicPlus®







5: Court Administration | Chester County, PA - Official Website

https://www.chesco.org/210/Court-Administration
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Patricia Norwood-Foden, Court Administrator · County Court of Common Pleas · Family Court · Custody · Divorce/Equitable Distribution · Protection from Abuse. HomeGovernmentCourtsCourt Administration Judges are ultimately responsible for effective court management. However, the complexity of the modern court requires the delegation of administrative functions and responsibilities to the Court Administrator's Office subject to the supervision and direction of the President Judge. Court Administration must practice extensive managerial and administrative skills in order to serve effectively as the managerial arm of the court, and by doing so, increases the time that Judges can spend in adjudication. Duties of the Court Administrator's Office include personnel and fiscal management, calendar or scheduling management, information systems, space and equipment management, Protection from Abuse, public information, jury management and liaison functions to various groups and agencies. Courtroom Audio Visual Information Request an Interpreter Information Interpreter Grievance Form English and Spanish COVID-19 Related Administrative Orders and Policies Arbitration Remote Appearance Request Form Civil Filing Fees (Prothonotary) Criminal Continuance Proposed Order Intermediate Punishment Application Guardianship Volunteer Application Form Administrative Order 13-2022 - Increase in Fees for Court-Appointed Guardians of Medicaid Recipient Incapacitated Persons Patricia Norwood-Foden, Court Administrator Authorities, Boards & Commissions Authorities, Boards & Commissions Government Websites by CivicPlus®