Frequently asked questions about using the Family Court website
Why are the court lists out of date?
The court lists are updated daily between 4.00pm and 6.00pm (except Darwin and Townsville lists which are uploaded every Friday). Your browser is probably displaying an old file from its cache. You need to clear the cache of your browser then reload/display the page containing the court list you wish to view.
How can I email the Court?
If you have a question about court services and procedures you can email the National Enquiry Centre at enquiries@familylawcourts.gov.au.
Or if you have a query about the website you can contact the web master.
MS Word and RTF forms have a large left margin,
The left-side margin was deliberately left wide to aid court staff (and others) when placing documents on files and then being able to readily read them within files (even when additional documents have been placed on top).
MS Word and RTF forms are locked and I can't change the main text of the form.
The MS Word forms are deliberately locked so that users of these forms are able to alter only those parts of the forms that are required to be completed.
MS Word and RTF forms when printed, don't print out to full A4 size.
Initially forms are not full page length if printed out. However, once the fillable portions are completed the pages do fill out. MS word and RTF versions are intended to be used by people typing them, not attempting to hand write after printing them out). If you want a form for this purpose print a PDF version.
The text size of the MS Word and RTF forms is too small.
Some users have concerns about the type size – users are advised to open the document at 120% plus if text size is an issue.
When I try to download a PDF court form I get a black screen.
This is probably due to the fact that your browser is not correctly associated with Acrobat Reader. See instructions on the Adobe web site
Alternatively, you can download the form directly to your PC and using them off-line using only Acrobat Reader without the browser (Internet Explorer and Netscape). For more information see Help with Forms
When I try to print a PDF court form I get black bars without text.
Make sure your printer set-up has the 'raster graphics' option selected and the DPI setting is set at 300 dpi, especially if you are using a HP laser printer.
When I try to print a PDF court form where I have added details, the details won't print.
Make sure your printer set-up has the 'raster graphics' option selected and the DPI setting is set at 300 dpi, especially if you are using a HP laser printer.
Also, make sure you are using the latest version of Acrobat Reader.
When I type on a interactive PDF form in one field, then move to another field the text disappears.
You need to use the latest version of Acrobat Reader.
How do I save a PDF court form?
You cannot save a court form using Acrobat Reader. At this stage to save a court form which is in Adobe PDF format you need the full commercial version of the Reader, Adobe Acrobat . See the Adobe site for more details : www.adobe.com
Can I use the PDF forms in a word processor?
No, PDF (Portable Document Format) is a completely different file format. You should use the MS Word or RTF versions.
How do I contact the Court about the PDF forms?
If you have a technical query about the the PDF forms you can contact the webmaster.
Email your request in writing and it will be dealt with as soon as possible.
Questions about completing the form should be directed to the National Enquiry Centre.
I have registered for the email notification service but I have not received any emails.
You have either registered an incorrect email address or your mail box is full and no additional emails can be received.