GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING OF PETITIONS

1. You must fill in all blanks. Type or write clearly in blue or black ink.

2. If the petition is not complete, it will be returned to you.

3. You MUST provide a correct address for each party, including house number, street, city, state and zip code.

4. If you are filing a petition, you are the Petitioner on the form and the other party is the Respondent. Use the same FILE number, if one is indicated.

5. If you are filing a Petition for Modification, you MUST show a change of circumstances from when the order you wish to modify was entered.

6. If modifying or enforcing an Order of Another Court, such as a Divorce Decree, a copy of the divorce and separation agreement, existing Order from any Family Court, if one exists, MUST be attached to the original petition.

7. You must date the petition and sign in both places BEFORE A NOTARY PUBLIC. Notaries are available at banks, law offices, libraries, and the County Clerk's Office.

8. You must submit an original and six copies of the petition to the Court.

9. If you complete an Order to Show Cause, this serves as a summons and you are responsible for service on the other party. Leave the court date blank, the Court will fill this in. The rest of this form must be complete.

10. Mail completed forms to:
FRANKLIN COUNTY FAMILY COURT
355 WEST MAIN STREET
MALONE, NY 12953

11. Paternity Petitions must be submitted with Certificate of Birth Registration.