What the Family Court does
Introduction
The Family Court aims to help people sort out their own issues and to ensure the interest of children are represented.
Providing families with help doesn't always involve actually going to court. There are many advice and support services that the Court will provide or recommend to you first, depending on the nature of your problem. For example, many family issues are resolved after counselling.
If you are facing a family problem or situation that might require the Family Court's help, or if you are facing or contemplating legal action, look under the relevant links below. Each link leads to further information about what the Family Court does in relation to each subject.
Information on applying to adopt a child and accessing adoption information or records...
Information on the Care of Children Act, including applications for parenting orders, and how to resolve guardianship issues...
Information on the role of the Family Court in care and protection proceedings. Applications are usually made to the Family Court by Child, Youth and Family...
Information on preventing the removal of children from New Zealand (for example by a parent in breach of a Parenting Order) and how The Hague Convention applies...
Free and confidential counselling for couples and families available through the Family Court. Find out who provides it, where, and how to apply....
Information on applying for a protection order and domestic violence support programmes...
When parents or guardians can't sort these matters out through counselling, the Court will appoint a lawyer for the child for disputes involving a child's needs...
How mediation works, who 'mediates' and more...
Information on compulsory treatment orders...
A programme especially designed to assist parents who are going through separation to help their children through this difficult time. Find out who provides it, where, and how to participate...
Information on the law relating to paternity (fatherhood)...
Information on property managers, welfare guardians and powers of attorney...
Information on the division of property when a marriage, civil union, or de facto relationship ends...
Information for couples who have decided to legally separate or dissolve (divorce) their marriage or civil union...
Other useful links relating to family matters
For birth, death, marriage and civil union information or copies of certificates, contact the Births Deaths and Marriages section of the Department of Internal Affairs.
For information on child support, contact the Child Support section of the Inland Revenue Department.
For information on committing a relative (under the Mental Health Act 1992), contact the Ministry of Health.
For information on child safety and wellbeing, including family group conferences, contact Child, Youth and Family.
