Kings County Family Court

Kings County Family Court Overview

The Kings County Family Court, situated at 330 Jay Street in Downtown Brooklyn, is a specialized court within the New York City Family Court system. It serves the residents of Brooklyn (Kings County) by hearing legal matters involving children and families. Unlike the Supreme Court, this court does not grant divorces; instead, it focuses on resolving issues such as child welfare, custody, and familial disputes. The courthouse is a high-volume facility that plays a crucial role in the borough’s justice system, aiming to protect the rights of families while ensuring the safety and well-being of children involved in litigation.

Jurisdiction and Services

The court has authority over a specific range of civil cases. Key matters handled here include:

• Child Support and Paternity: Establishing legal fatherhood and determining financial support obligations for children.
• Custody and Visitation: Adjudicating disputes between parents or guardians regarding residence and visitation schedules.
• Family Offense Proceedings: Issuing Orders of Protection for victims of domestic violence involved in family or intimate relationships.
• Juvenile Delinquency and PINS: Cases involving minors accused of criminal conduct or those deemed Persons in Need of Supervision.
• Guardianship and Adoption: Managing the legal appointment of guardians and finalizing adoptions.

Visiting Procedures

Security at 330 Jay Street is rigorous. All visitors are required to pass through magnetometers and x-ray screening upon entry. Lines can be long, particularly in the morning, so arriving early is strongly recommended. Prohibited Items: Weapons of any kind, sharp objects (including scissors and knitting needles), glass bottles, and mace/pepper spray are strictly forbidden. While cell phones are generally permitted in the building, they must be silenced and are often restricted from use inside courtrooms. The facility is fully ADA compliant, offering elevators and accessible restrooms. Due to the limited availability of street parking and the high cost of private garages in Downtown Brooklyn, public transportation is the most efficient way to travel to the court.