Divorce Courts in Kings County, NY
| Court Name | Location | Phone | Hours | Judge(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kings County Supreme Court — Civil Term | 360 Adams Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | (347) 296-1740 | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Katherine A. Levine, Judge Rachel A. Adams |
| Kings County Family Court | 330 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | (347) 401-9610 | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Amanda E. White, Judge Taryn A. Merkl |
| Brooklyn Supreme Court — Matrimonial Part | 360 Adams Street, Room 120, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | (347) 296-1592 | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Mon–Fri | Judge Jeffrey S. Sunshine |
Kings County Divorce Filing Fee
The average base filing fee in Kings County for a divorce is approximately $210. The service fee is typically $45 per defendant if using sheriff’s service. You can contact the Kings County Clerk’s office at (347) 404-9000 to get more accurate information.
Residency Requirements
To file for divorce in Kings County, New York, at least one spouse must meet certain residency requirements established by New York State. These generally require that either spouse has lived in New York for one year continuously if both were married in the state, lived there as a married couple, or the grounds for divorce occurred in New York. Alternatively, a two-year residency in the state by either spouse can be sufficient regardless of where they were married or the grounds for divorce. Both spouses do not need to reside in Kings County specifically, but residency in New York is required. Proof of residency can include a driver’s license, utility bills, or a notarized affidavit.
How to File for Divorce in Kings,New York
1. Prepare Your Divorce Forms
Gather all necessary paperwork including your marriage certificate, financial records, property deeds, and information about shared assets and debts. For couples with children, collect birth certificates and prepare details about custody preferences and support arrangements.
2. Complete Required Forms
Fill out the official divorce complaint forms, domestic relations information sheet, and summons. If children are involved, you’ll need additional forms including the child support information sheet. Forms must be complete and accurate to avoid rejection.
3. Submit Paperwork to the Court
Submit all completed and signed divorce documents to the Clerk of Court in your county. Once your forms are filed and the fee is paid (or waived), the court will assign a case number to your divorce. A judge will also be assigned to review your case and issue the final divorce judgment.
4. Serve Your Spouse With Papers
Legally notify your spouse about the divorce filing through sheriff’s service, certified mail, or a private process server. Your spouse has a limited period to respond to the complaint. This step is crucial as the divorce cannot proceed until proper service is documented with the court.