Family Court - New York County

About This Court

New York County Family Court handles cases involving custody, visitation, child support, abuse/neglect and other family matters in Manhattan.

Audio recordings are not provided to litigants; the court forwards digital recordings to an approved transcription vendor.

Who Can Request

Only parties to the case and their attorneys may request official transcripts of a Family Court proceeding. Members of the public generally cannot access Family Court records.

What You Can Request

• Certified transcript: Yes. Official transcripts are available.
• Audio copy: No. Audio recordings are not provided to litigants.
• On-site listening: Yes. You may request to listen to the recording at the courthouse.

Recording method: Mixed (digital audio and stenographic)

What You Need (Data Checklist)

• Case name and index/docket number
• Date(s) of the proceeding
• Judge's name and courtroom/part (if known)
• Your contact information (name, phone, address)
• Selected transcription vendor from the approved list

Step-by-Step Process

1. Gather case details. Collect your case name, index/docket number, hearing dates, and the judge's name.
2. Confirm the recording method. Call the court to ask whether your hearing was digitally recorded or taken by a court reporter.
3. Choose a transcription vendor. Review the approved vendor list and contact vendors to compare rates. Note your selected vendor.
4. Complete the request form. Fill out the Request for Transcript (Family Court) with your case information.
5. Submit your request. Available methods: email, EDDS, mail, in-person. Address: 60 Lafayette Street, New York, NY 10013
6. Pay for the transcript. The vendor will contact you with a cost estimate. Pay the vendor directly. Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify.
7. Receive your transcript. Turnaround time varies; expect 2-4 weeks for standard service. Expedited service may be available at additional cost.

Costs & Timelines

• Transcript fees: Vendors charge per page; expect a deposit and higher fees for expedited service.
• Audio copies: Not provided.
• Timeline: Standard transcripts may take 30-60 days. Expedited service available.
• Fee waivers: Apply for poor person relief using UCS fee waiver forms if you cannot afford the cost.

Required Forms

Fee Waiver (Poor Person Relief)

Fee waiver available via poor person relief; submit fee-waiver application and supporting forms

To apply for a fee waiver, you'll need these forms:

• Application to Waive Court Costs, Fees, and Expenses (UCS-FW1)
• Notice of Motion to Waive Court Costs, Fees, and Expenses (UCS-FW2)
• Affirmation of Service (Motion to Waive Fees) (UCS-FW3)
• Order – Application to Waive Court Costs, Fees, and Expenses (UCS-FWO1)