Alabama · Circuit Court — Family Division
Alabama family court, without the confusion.
Alabama Circuit Court handles divorce, custody, child support, and protection from abuse orders. Family law cases are filed in the county where you or the other party lives.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What Alabama requires — before you file
1
1-year residency. You or your spouse must have lived in Alabama for at least 1 year before filing for divorce, unless both parties are residents at the time of filing.
2
No mandatory waiting period. Alabama does not have a statutory waiting period for divorce, though contested cases take much longer.
3
Financial disclosure required. Both parties must disclose income, expenses, assets, and debts.
4
Parenting class may be required. Some Alabama counties require parents to complete a parenting class when minor children are involved.
Alabama uses 'custody' and 'visitation' — standard terminology familiar to most people.
All 15 Alabama Counties
Alabama family law forms are filed in the county Circuit Court where you or the other party lives.
Jefferson
Mobile
Madison
Montgomery
Shelby
Baldwin
Tuscaloosa
Lee
Calhoun
Etowah
Houston
Marshall
Lauderdale
St. Clair
Talladega