Accessing Family Court Records
General Rule: Family Court has discretion to permit inspections of its files. Family Court Act Section 166 prohibits inspections that are "indiscriminate" and "public". Therefore, all requests must be determined on a case-by-case basis. Other sections of the Family Court Act, Court Rules, and other statutes may limit or preclude disclosure - for example, Juvenile Delinquency sealing provisions, Mental Health laws, and Social Services laws.
May I access Family Court records?
You are permitted to access Family Court records if you are a party in the proceeding or the attorney of record.
How do I request copies of my Family Court orders?
To request copies of your Family Court orders, you can appear in person at the record room in the county where the proceeding was held. You can also request that a copy of the order be sent to you electronically (through our secure email system: e-notify) or by mail.
Please note that certified and court-sealed copies of orders can only be provided in person or by regular mail.
How do I request a digital copy of my Family Court order(s)?
To request electronic copies of your orders, email the county where your court file is located. Be sure to attach a clear photo of your current government-issued ID so they can verify your identity.
A list of county email addresses is below:
- Bronx - [email protected]
- Kings (Brooklyn) - [email protected]
- New York - [email protected]
- Queens - [email protected]
- Richmond (Staten Island) - [email protected]
What are the requirements to view my court file in person?
You must bring a valid, government-issued ID to view your court records. Examples of acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, non-driver's identification card, or passport.
Can I review my file and obtain copies on the same day I appear and make my request?
Access to your file or copies of orders usually can be arranged the same day. If you arrive near closing time, or if the record room is busy, you may need to come back on the next business day. Please check the court’s page for your county to see the record room hours.
What types of documents can I access?
- Pleadings – petitions, answers, motions, affidavits in opposition to motions, reply affidavits, orders to show cause
- Summons, notices, affidavits/affirmations of service, notices of appearances, orders to produce
- Findings, decisions, orders (temporary and final)
- Transcripts (if already in the file)
Note: any document other than those listed above may only be provided upon Court order or upon the submission of a subpoena “so ordered” by a Court that specifies the document(s) requested. These may include—Forensic Evaluations, Mental Health Reports, Court Ordered Investigations (COIs), Probation Reports, Social Work Reports, Supervised Visitation Reports, and Criminal Record Reports.
Electronic Filing Now Available for Family Court Matters
You now have the option to file documents electronically through NYSCEF in matters involving child support, paternity, parentage, custody, visitation, and guardianship. By choosing e-filing, you’ll have secure, 24/7 online access to your case records—making it easier and more convenient to manage your filings anytime, from anywhere.