Welcome to the Family Court Glossary
This page provides a list of commonly used words and phrases you may see or hear in Family Court. The glossary is designed to help explain court terms in clear, easy-to-understand language. We hope this resource makes it easier for you to understand court information and processes.
Waiver
- An intentional and voluntary relinquishment of some known right.
Warrant
- An order issued by the court directing police or peace officers to arrest and/or produce a respondent and/or child.
Willfulness Hearing
- Conducted in spousal or child support proceedings to determine if the respondent intentionally and wilfully failed to obey a lawful order of support.
Writ
- An order issued from a court of justice requiring the performance of a specified act, or giving authority and commission to have it done.
Writ of Habeas Corpus
- An order issued by the court directing that a person be produced in Family Court immediately. This order generally requires the assistance of a peace officer.