Domestic Relations Cases:
How to File for Divorce, Parental Rights and Responsibilities and Support

FORMS

BASIC FACTS

This WEB page provides basic, initial instructions for some of the types of cases handled in the Superior Court domestic relations department. These instructions may not represent all of the necessary forms and procedures that may apply in your case.  In addition, not every type of case is addressed on this WEB site.  You should contact the Family Division or the Superior Court where you live for further information.

•  Domestic relations cases include divorce, separation, annulment, establishing parental rights and responsibilities,  establishment of paternity, child support, child visitation, domestic violence and other related matters.
  

• If you live in Belknap, Carroll, Coos, Grafton, Merrimack, Rockingham, Strafford or Sullivan Counties, domestic relations cases are heard in the Family Division. All other domestic relations cases are heard in New Hampshire Superior Court.

NOTE:  Anyone who goes to court without a lawyer takes a serious risk.  These cases can be  complicated and it is recommended that you consult a lawyer to best protect your interests, especially if there are issues regarding custody of children, property and pension/retirement benefits. 

Even if you appear in court without a lawyer, you will be required to follow the court rules for a divorce proceeding.  (See Rules for Regulating the Practice in Domestic Relations: Rules 172-213)

The clerk’s office in each county can provide you with information about procedures but cannot give you legal advice or give you specific information about your situation.

New Hampshire law requires that if your case involves issues relating to your children, both parties must attend a 4 hour Child Impact Seminar.

How to File for Divorce

How to File a Parenting Petition (formerly Petition for Custody)

How to Modify Child Support

How to Modify Schedules and other Limited Issues Involving Children

If Children Are Involved

Guardians Ad Litem

How to Enforce a Court Order

How to Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Divorce Decree

If You Change Your Address

How to Find Your County Superior Court Clerk's Office

Court Rules

Forms