My girlfriend won't let me visit with my child. I'm willing to pay child support and I want to see my child. What can I do?

You may file a Petition to Establish Paternity and for Related Relief. You can ask the court to establish that you are the biological father of the child and ask for visitation. You may purchase a packet in the Court Business Center/Copy Center,6th Floor, Room 630 of the Edgecomb Courthouse or you may access the forms online. You may also contact the Department of Revenue. For a nominal fee they will be able to help you with your case.

I just got served with paternity papers. What do I need to do?

As it states in your summons, you should file your response with the court within 20 days after you have been served with the papers. There are forms available in the Court Business Center/Copy Center,6th Floor, Room 630 of the Edgecomb Courthouse, or you may access the forms online. If you do not understand or are confused about any of the papers you have been served with or how to file your response, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of an attorney.

My girlfriend is pregnant and she said she is leaving the State. What can I do?

Since the child has not been born yet, you should consult with an attorney to find out your legal rights. There are no standard Family Law forms available to assist you.  

These forms are confusing. I don't understand some of the words. Can someone help me fill them out?

If you need assistance filling out a form you may want to visit the Legal Information Center located in Room 203 of the Edgecomb Courthouse. The Legal Information Center is a free program to provide information to people who are representing themselves in family law, landlord/tenant, or small claims cases in Hillsborough County. For Further information go to the Legal Information Center. If you do not understand any forms or procedures in your case, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of an attorney.

How do I know which General Magistrate or Hearing Officer my case is assigned to?

Please view the General Magistrate / Hearing Officer Division Referral Assignment Table by clicking this link.