What is E-Filing?
E-Filing is a way to file and serve court papers through the Internet. Unrepresented litigants may choose to e-file court papers online using the statewide New York State Court's Electronic Filing (NYSCEF) system: https://www.nycourts.gov/efile-unrepresented.
How does E-Filing work?
A user submits documents for filing through the e-filing system. The court reviews the documents to make sure they are completed correctly. If there are any issues, the documents are returned to the user with an explanation so they can be corrected.
Which Family Court can I e-file my papers to?
You can use NYSCEF E-Filing in every county in New York City Family Court – Bronx, Kings (Brooklyn), New York (Manhattan), Queens, and Richmond (Staten Island).
What are the case types available for E-Filing in New York City Family Court?
The case types currently available for E-Filing are:
- Custody and Visitation
- Guardianship
- Paternity
- Support - Child and Spousal
- Parentage - Assisted Reproduction
- Parentage - Surrogacy
Is there a fee to use the NYSCEF Family Court E-Filing system?
The court does not charge a fee to use the Family Court E-Filing system.
When can I use NYSCEF?
NYSCEF E-Filing is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
When does the court consider a petition or document filed?
Petitions and documents received during normal business hours are considered filed the same day. Documents received after business hours, on weekends, or on holidays are considered filed on the next business day.
Is E-Filing mandatory?
No, Electronic Filing (e-filing) is not required for people who do not have attorneys. If you choose not to e-file, you will file and serve all court papers in paper form and the other side must serve their court papers on you in paper form. However, you may choose to e-file.
Resources & Contact Information
Training Resources and Registration – Visit and select “Training Resources” or “Register for Training”
Unrepresented Litigant Homepage
CourtHelp Website
Click here to download the NYSCEF Family Court brochure in PDF format.