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Family courts—also known as domestic relations courts—are usually trial courts with the authority to hear only matters relating to family or domestic matters—such as divorce, child custody, and child support—and modification of related orders—as well as dating and domestic violence matters. Courts dedicated to family or domestic relations matters are usually located in populous counties and are said to have exclusive jurisdiction of domestic relations matters within the county.

In Maryland, family courts, often referred to as domestic relations courts, are specialized divisions within the circuit courts that handle cases related to family law matters. These courts have the authority to preside over a variety of issues including divorce, child custody, child support, and the modification of existing family law orders. Additionally, they address cases involving domestic violence and protective orders. Family courts in Maryland are designed to provide a forum that specifically addresses the complexities and sensitivities associated with family law disputes. While these courts are available in many of the state's more populous counties, their jurisdiction is generally exclusive to family-related matters within the geographic boundaries of the county in which they are located. This means that for residents of a particular county, the family court division of their local circuit court would typically be the venue for initiating and resolving domestic relations cases.

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Courts

family courts

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Courts

family courts

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