Family Division

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Family Division of the Circuit Clerk's Office consists of five (5) sub-units.  They are Family, Divorce, Child Support, Adoption and Mental Health.   

Family Clerk handles any new filings for paternity, child support, visitation etc., on cases in which the parties involved are not married.  The family clerk will often work with the State's Attorney's office in filing of new cases or filings filed by the Department of Public Aid

Divorce Clerk handles any new filings for Divorce cases. These filings may include visitation and child support if minor children are involved.  The divorce clerk is also responsible for sending a list of any new divorce judgments for listing in the newspaper (usually to the State Journal Register).  Along with these duties the Divorce clerk must send all new divorce judgments to the Office of Vital Records.

Child Support Clerk is primarily responsible for entering any child support payments that come through the mail.  They are also responsible for setting up or amending any new child support orders entered by the Judge.  The Child Support Clerk will work very closely with Public Aid and the State Disbursement Unit as well for any orders that may correspond with our office.

Adoption/Mental Health Clerk enters any pleadings relating to adoption or mental health pleadings.  The clerk will also open any new mental health cases.  Adoption and Mental Health cases are not open to the public and must have a Judge's Order to be opened/viewed.

The Family Division also handles the fee for anyone wishing to be married by a Judge.  This fee is currently $10.00.  The parties must first visit the County Clerks Office (room 101) and apply for their marriage license before our office can accept payment.

Family Division Clerks are available to answer any questions Monday through Friday 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.