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Court Documents & Forms

Do-first guidance with links to real forms, portals, and checklists. Start at Step 1 and work across.

Step 1 — Open the case

Get an index number and choose your starter papers (Summons with Notice or Summons & Verified Complaint).

See starter forms Court fees

Step 2 — Serve the defendant

NY requires strict personal service at the beginning. Use a process server; file an Affidavit of Service.

Service checklist What “service” means

Step 3 — E-file your papers

Most Supreme Court divorces use NYSCEF; some courts accept EDDS document delivery.

Open NYSCEF Open EDDS

Step 4 — Submission packet

Once papers are signed/served, assemble the packet (Affirmation of Regularity, Acknowledgment/Affidavit of Defendant, proposed Judgment, etc.).

Packet forms Submission checklist

Step 5 — After judgment

Use the signed Judgment of Divorce to update records, IDs, and beneficiaries.

After-judgment guide What a JOD is

Need a notary?

Many divorce forms require notarization. Here’s how to avoid common snags.

Notary tips

Most-used forms (quick list)

County/judge practices vary. Always follow local part rules when available.

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