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Filing a Non-Dissolution Case

Child Support and Custody

Follow these steps to file your case in family court. 

If you want to change an existing court order, see How to File a Post-Judgment Family Motion. 

8 Steps for Filing a Non-Dissolution case in Superior Court

  1. Fill out the following form. You are the "Plaintiff."
  2. Include the current address of the other party. This is very important. The other party will receive a Notice to Appear in court and a copy of your court papers. If the other party cannot be reached, your case might be dismissed or delayed.
     
  3. What to do if you cannot find the other party
    • If you are asking for child support, your county welfare office can help you locate the other parent. They receive federal funding to perform this service for child support recipients.
    • If you are not asking for child support, you can complete the Diligent Search Kit to show that you tried to find the other party.
    • Your case cannot proceed until the other party is found.
       
  4. Fill out the Confidential Litigant Information Sheet
     
  5. Complete other forms as needed.
    For child support, establishment of paternity, spousal support, and/or health insurance coverage, fill out these forms: For custody, parenting time or visitation, also complete the
  6. Double check the forms. Do not leave any blank spaces. Write N/A if something does not apply to you. Make sure you sign them where it is required.
     
  7. Make a copy of the forms and keep them in a safe place.
     
  8. There are 3 ways to deliver the forms.
    • Option 1: You can upload your forms  on Judiciary Electronic Document Submission (JEDS). If you are asking for child support, include the child support application form. You can pay the $6 fee with a credit card.
    • Option 2: You can deliver your forms to the county courthouse. If you are asking for child support, bring the child support application form and a $6 check or a money order payable to Treasurer, State of NJ.
    • Option 3: You can mail your forms to the county courthouse. If you are asking for child support, include the child support application and a $6 check or money order payable to Treasurer, State of NJ.
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