Family Law

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You are reading this because you have filed a Petition with the Clerk of Court. If you are not represented by an attorney, you are a Pro Se (self-represented) litigant, which simply means you are a litigant representing yourself as your own attorney.

You must read the instructions at the above site and the information below before contacting the Judge's case manager.

How long will it be before I hear from the case manager?
How do I / Am I required to notify the other party?
What if I need legal advice?
What if I need copies of documents from my case file?
Have you moved?
Case manager contact information

How long will it be before I hear from the case manager?

You will be notified, in writing, by the case manager of additional documents needed; notice of setting a case management conference; notice of final hearing; or a notice/order of dismissal. Average review time by the case manager is 10-14 days, but may take longer during periods of peak demand or staff shortages.

How do I / Am I required to notify the other party?

Yes. When a Petition or Supplemental Petition has been filed, the other party must be personally served by the Sheriff or Process Server. The Clerk of Court will issue a Summons and you must attach a copy of all pleadings that have been filed in the case to the Summons. Additional information on service can be read in the Instructions for Self-Represented Litigants.

What if I need legal advice?

The case manager works for the circuit judge assigned to your case. The case manager and the Clerk of Court cannot provide legal advice. You may contact a private attorney (several will provide a free/reduced fee consultation); Legal Services of North Florida at 850-385-9007 or the Legal Aid Foundation at 850-222-3292.

What if I need copies of documents from my case file?

The Clerk of Court is the record keeper of all files and you will need to go to their offices to obtain copies from your file. Keep in mind that there are charges for copies unless you are found indigent.

Have you moved?

You need to be sure the address you have provided to the Clerk of Court is correct and up to date. If you move during the course of the proceedings, you need to file written notification with the Clerk of Court. The notification form is attached to the Administrative Order that speaks to address changes - Administrative Order 2007-05

Case Manager Contact Information:

Franklin County:
        Judge Allman - Allura Lathem

Gadsden County
        Judge Frank - Allura Lathem

Jefferson County:
        Judge Caloca-Johnson - Allura Lathem

Leon County:
        Judge A. Miller - Cynthia McReed
        Judge Wheeler - Tamika Peterson
        Judge Hawkes - Donnie O'Bee

Liberty County:
        Judge Frank - Allura Lathem

Wakulla County:
        Judge Smith - Allura Lathem