Glossary of Family Law Terms

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

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Service of Process: Formal notice from the Court to the defendant that orders him or her to appear in court to answer plaintiff's allegations.

Sole Custody: One parent has the complete physical and legal custody of the children.

Spouse: Husband or wife.

Subpoena: A document issued by the court or an attorney requiring someone to appear in court or at deposition. Duces Tecum: A request to bring documents.

Supervised Visitation: Visitation by a parent with his child while another adult (other than the custodial parent) is present.