Filing a Petition

  • You must fill in all blanks. Type or write clearly in black or blue ink only.
  • If the Petition is not complete, it will be returned to you.
  • You must provide legal names and a good address for each party, including house number, street, city, state and zip code. If you don't have a complete address for the other party, you will be responsible for service on that party.
  • If this is the first time you are filing a Petition or the first time you will be appearing in Family Court, you are the Petitioner on the form and the other party is the Respondent.
  • If you have been to this Family Court on a previous occasion and have a copy of the Court order. Use the same file number.
  • If you are filing a Petition for Modification, you must show a change of circumstances.
  • If modifying or enforcing an Order of another court, such as a divorce decree, a copy of the divorce and separation agreement, if one exists, must be attached to the original Petition.
  • You must date the Petition and sign in both places before a notary public. Notaries are available at many banks, law offices and the County Clerk's Office or at this office.
  • If you mail the completed Petition to this Court, you must submit an original and three copies of the Petition (one of which is the Petitioning party) to the Court for Processing.
  • If the Petition you are filing has to do with custody and/or visitation, an Order to Show Cause will be completed for you. This serves as a summons and you are responsible for service on the other party.
  • Mail completed forms to: Lewis County Family Court, 7660 State Street, Lowville, NY 13367.
  • A paternity Petition must include the Certificate of Birth Registration and the social security number of the child.