When you have a Family Law case in Philadelphia County, your hearings will likely occur at the Court of Philadelphia in the Family Division. This division is also known as Family Court, and it is one of three major divisions in Philadelphia County's court of Common Pleas. The Family Division is split into two separate branches, Juvenile Court and Domestic Relations. Custody, divorce, along with child and spousal support are all resolved in the Domestic Relations branch.
Family Court In Philadelphia County
The Family Court itself is located in heart of Philadelphia at 1501 Arch Street. The Court's offices remain open from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm on Monday through Friday, unless it is otherwise stated. There are 12 judges that can preside over a hearing at the court. There are also a number of additional services provided at the Family Court. Family Court in Philadelphia County offers the following and more:
- Domestic Violence Unit: This is a case filing unit specifically for victims of domestic violence who are currently not represented by an attorney.
- Parent Locator Service: This is an investigative service to locate whereabouts, income, or assets of absent or missing parents.
- Filing Unit (TANF): This is a filing service for recipients of public assistance programs.
- Genetic Testing Unit: A genetic testing service is offered for the purpose of testing for paternity or maternity. This involves a non-invasive cheek swab which is then taken to a lab. There is no age limit on the test, and the sampling can be done in a very short amount of time.
- Support Masters Unit: A Support Master is a licensed attorney that is given a case to help settle between two parties discussing an issue of support. Parties are allowed to present evidence and testimony similar to the way they would at a hearing in front of a judge.
- Custody And Divorce Masters Unit: Similar to the Support Masters unit, but instead handling issues of divorce and custody.
- Networking for Jobs Program: This service provides assistance with finding or preparing for a job for unemployed parents who are required to pay child support.
- Financial Services: This unit collects payments and also helps determine expenditures for child support.
- Writ Service Unit: The Writ Service Unit exists to locate and serve individuals with legal notices, subpoenas and other legal documents.
- Interpreter Services: If an interpreter is needed, the court will supply one for you across a wide variety of languages.
A full list and explanations for each of the court's services can be found here. All forms necessary for filing are available at the court's website as well.
If you or a loved one is currently engaged in matters of Family Law in Philadelphia County, contact attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
