A custodial parent may file a petition with their local child support agency. That petition will then be forwarded to the New York City Law Department office in the county where the non-custodial parent resides. This matter will then be litigated in the New York City Family Court located in the same borough.
You may choose to file your own Family Court petition. To do so, go to the website listed below and choose the type of petition you want to file. Completed petitions must be filed with the General Clerk of the Family Court (631-853-4289).
In some circumstances, you file a petition or a motion. The court has several complaint forms that you may use in drafting your complaint. The forms are available online and at the Pro Se Intake Unit. You may also write your own complaint without using a court form.
Generally, in most US states, including California, you don't need a lawyer to start a custody case. This is because you have the right of self-representation in court. You may agree if you and your ex-partner are willing to work out your differences. You can do this by going to a mediation service.