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Types of Court Forms and How to Fill Them Out
Whether initiating a new case or responding to a complaint, court forms represent the primary point of contact between individuals and the court system. These legal documents contain interactive elements that allow individuals to convey information about themselves and their requests at every stage of the judicial process. In addition, court forms assist clerks in organizing proceedings and accurately determining the nature of the case being presented.
In the United States, federal and state courts provide legal forms for different types of cases. You can find these forms easily online as fillable and printable versions. They are also available in paper format at every courthouse.
What Are Court Forms?
Court forms are legal documents that allow individuals to input their personal information, details about their cases, and the request they want the court to approve. These forms are necessary at every stage of legal proceedings and may also be needed after a judgment.
There are two main types of court forms: state court forms and federal court forms. State court forms are used in criminal, civil, family, and small claims courts under state supervision. Federal court forms are used for matters under federal law, such as bankruptcy and civil disputes between parties from different states.
Finding the Right Court Form
Most court systems in the United States use mandatory court forms. This means that individuals who wish to go to court must complete and file one or more court forms. Most state court forms are available on official court websites in electronic fillable form and printable format.
On the other hand, interested persons can find federal court forms online by visiting the federal district court websites in their jurisdiction. While most state and federal courts maintain a page for all court forms, others require users to search for the correct form they need. Interested persons can search court forms by case type, jurisdiction, and number. Those who do not wish to visit official court websites may find court forms by visiting legal aid offices and self-help centers.
How To Fill Out Court Forms Correctly
The first step in initiating a legitimate court case is to ensure that the court form intended for submission is completed accurately. Inaccuracies or omissions in the form may result in the dismissal of the case. To reduce the chances of dismissal, it is best to adhere to the following guidelines when filling out legal forms:
- Make sure you have the latest version of the court form you want to file. If you're unsure, contact the court for help.
- Read the entire form carefully and highlight the instructions before you submit it. If you're confused at any point, talk to a lawyer.
- Write using blue or black ink so that everything is easy to read.
- Include your legal name, current phone number, and address. Most forms ask for this information on the first page and your email address.
- Complete every section of the form that applies to you.
- Sign the form wherever a signature is required.
When You Need to Draft Your Own Forms
Most court forms are pre-made and downloadable from court websites. However, pre-made forms are often available for common court cases like civil and criminal matters. If your court case is unique, you may not find a ready-made court form that addresses your needs. Most courts allow you to create your court form in such a situation.
Creating your legal document can be daunting; however, you can create your court form without stress by looking for templates or examples of court forms similar to your case. You can find the right templates and other relevant information concerning creating your court form by visiting law libraries, legal aid offices, and law websites:
- Find and review samples of the pleading or motion you intend to create.
- Find and review samples that reflect your position in the case.
- Look for samples that involve facts similar to those in your case.
- Study samples where the party seeks the same relief you seek from the court.
- Ensure that the form you are creating complies with court rules.
- Use the current format for court forms applicable in the court where your case will be heard.
Federal vs. State Court Forms
Court forms are generally created to facilitate court processes and proceedings in a particular type of case and court. As such, court forms vary by case type and jurisdiction of the court handling the case.
What Are Federal Court Forms
Federal court forms are fill-in-the-blank legal documents used to bring, argue, or make a request concerning a matter that falls under the federal court's jurisdiction, such as bankruptcy and civil disputes between two parties that are not from the same state. Interested persons can find federal court forms online on the U.S. Courts websites or the PACER system. Those seeking paper forms may contact the federal court clerk in their district. Listed below are some federal court forms by case category:
Federal Court Forms
What Are State Court Forms?
State court forms are legal documents used to bring, argue, or make a request concerning a matter under the jurisdiction of a state court. These forms vary by state and by different courts within the state.
State Court Forms Directory
| States | Court Forms Directory |
|---|---|
| Arizona | https://www.azcourts.gov/selfservicecenter/forms |
| California | https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/find-forms/all-by-category |
| Colorado | https://www.coloradojudicial.gov/self-help-forms |
| Connecticut | https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/ |
| Delaware | https://courts.delaware.gov/forms/ |
| Hawaii | https://www.courts.state.hi.us/self-help/courts/forms/court_forms |
| Indiana | https://www.in.gov/courts/publications/forms/ |
| Illinois | https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/documents-and-forms/approved-forms/ |
| New York | https://www.nycourts.gov/forms/ |
| Oregon | https://www.courts.oregon.gov/forms/pages/default.aspx |
| Rhode Island | https://www.courts.ri.gov/Pages/forms.aspx |
| South Dakota | https://ujslawhelp.sd.gov/onlineforms.aspx |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I File Paperwork to Go to Court?
Filing paperwork to go to court begins with completing all applicable forms and obtaining the necessary documents concerning your case. Depending on the court, you can file the paperwork personally at the clerk's office, by mail, or online.
Does it Cost Money to File a Case?
Yes, filing a case in court generally requires you to pay a filing fee. However, this rule has some exceptions, so you may need to contact the court clerk for specific information about your case.
What Are the Names of Parties in a Case?
The parties' names in a case depend on the type of case that is filed. For example, in a civil case, the person filing the case is the plaintiff, while the person the case was brought against is the defendant. For family cases, the person filing the complaint is the defendant, while the other party is the respondent.
How Do I Get My Forms Notarized?
You can get your forms notarized by visiting a notary public office. The notary reviews the form and signs the document in your presence. Although this service is usually free, some notaries may charge.
How Do I Notify the Other Person that I Filed a Case?
You can notify the other person that you filed a case using any of the ‘service of process' options recognized by the specific court handling your case. A service process means notifying someone about a court case you filed against them. Most courts allow you to serve a process to the other party via certified mail, a law enforcement officer, or in person.
If I Have to File an Answer, Do I Serve the Paper the Same Way?
You can serve a copy of your answer using any of the ‘service of process' options recognized by the specific court handling your case. Note that an answer is a response to a case brought against you.