Hawaii Family Court Records - Hawaii Court Records

Hawaii Family Court Records are personal legal documents that explain how the court handled family-related matters such as divorce, child custody, adoption, and guardianship. These records are created during each step of the legal process and include key details about the case. They are used to keep a clear and organized record of what happened in court. Each document reflects the court’s decisions and actions taken during the case. The content may vary depending on the type of issue and how it was resolved.

People often use these records for personal reference when reviewing past legal situations involving family matters. The documents may include petitions, hearing dates, court orders, and final judgments. They help individuals understand the legal outcome of their case and, for more information on official records, visit the Hawaii Court website . These records also help individuals keep track of important legal steps. While the level of detail can differ, each record is part of a full timeline showing how the family court handled the situation.

Who Can Access Family Court Records in Hawaii?

Access to Hawaii Family Court records depends on the type of case, the parties involved, and the confidentiality status of the documents. While some records are open to the public under Hawaii’s Uniform Information Practices Act (UIPA), others—particularly those involving minors, adoption, or sensitive family matters—may be restricted or sealed by the court.

Public vs Restricted Family Court Records

Many family court documents, such as final divorce decrees or general case dockets, are publicly accessible. These can often be reviewed through the eCourt Kokua or Ho‘ohiki case portals provided by the Hawaii State Judiciary. These platforms allow users to view limited case details including party names, case numbers, court dates, and filing actions.

Restricted or Sealed Records

Records involving minors (juvenile cases), adoption proceedings, child welfare, guardianship, and protective orders are typically sealed and not available to the general public. These records are only accessible to authorized individuals such as:

Parties directly involved in the case
Legal guardians or authorized representatives
Attorneys with verified representation
Law enforcement or court officials, as permitted by law

The sealing of these records is intended to protect the privacy of individuals, especially children and victims of abuse or neglect.

Who Is Legally Allowed Access?

Access to family court records in Hawaii is determined by several factors, including the individual’s role in the case and the nature of the documents requested. You may be eligible to view or obtain certain records if you are:

A named party in the case (e.g., a petitioner or respondent in a divorce)
A parent or legal guardian involved in a custody or support matter
An attorney representing a party in an active or closed case
A judicial officer or government employee with proper authorization
A relative or legal heir with a valid reason for requesting specific family documents

Each request is subject to review by the court clerk or presiding judge, and identification or documentation may be required.

Age, Relationship, and Legal Status Requirements

To access restricted family court records in Hawaii, the following eligibility requirements generally apply:

Minimum Age: You must be 18 or older to request court records unless represented by an adult or legal guardian.
Direct Relationship: In cases of sealed documents (such as adoption or guardianship files), you must demonstrate a direct legal relationship to one of the parties involved.
Legal Standing: You must have a valid legal interest or authorization to access records not considered public. For example, family members may access records for probate or next-of-kin verification, but not for investigative or third-party purposes.

Access is granted only in accordance with Hawaii court rules and applicable privacy laws. Unauthorized disclosure or misuse of confidential records may result in legal penalties.

Types of Cases Handled by Hawaii Family Courts

Hawaii Family Courts manage a broad range of legal matters that directly affect families and individuals. These courts address situations such as divorce, child custody, support, guardianship, and more. Each type of case involves different legal processes, eligibility rules, and documentation. The information below provides a helpful overview of the most common family-related cases heard in Hawaii’s judicial system.

Divorce and Annulment

Family Courts in Hawaii handle legal dissolutions of marriage, which include both divorce and annulment.

Divorce formally ends a legal marriage and may involve decisions related to property division, child custody, and spousal support.
Annulment declares a marriage legally invalid, as though it never existed, which may be granted based on specific grounds such as fraud or incapacity at the time of marriage.

Once a divorce or annulment is finalized, the court maintains official documentation. These records may include case filings, court decisions, and judgment summaries. In many cases, these documents can be requested through appropriate court channels, depending on access restrictions.

Child Custody and Visitation

Custody and visitation disputes are commonly addressed in Hawaii Family Courts. These cases determine:

Which parent will have physical custody (where the child lives)
Whether parents will share legal custody (decision-making authority)
A schedule for visitation or parenting time

Courts prioritize the best interests of the child and may establish temporary or permanent custody orders. While some custody records are accessible to the public, others may be sealed or limited to authorized parties depending on the sensitivity of the case.

Child and Spousal Support

When parents separate or divorce, courts may issue orders for:

Child support: financial contributions for a child’s daily expenses, education, and healthcare
Spousal support (alimony): financial support to a former spouse when appropriate

Support orders are based on various factors including income, needs, and custodial arrangements. These records may be included in case files maintained by the Family Court, though some financial details may be redacted or restricted from public access.

Note: Access to support-related records does not imply eligibility determinations. These records are not intended for use in evaluating creditworthiness, employment, or other prohibited decisions.

Domestic Violence and Protective Orders

Family Courts issue civil protective orders in cases involving domestic violence or threats of harm.

These may include Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs) and Permanent Restraining Orders (PROs).
Orders typically outline no-contact conditions, residence exclusions, and other safety provisions.

While the existence of a protective order may be part of a public docket, the underlying documents often contain sensitive information and may not be fully accessible.

Juvenile and Guardianship Cases

Hawaii Family Courts also oversee legal issues involving minors, including:

Guardianship: appointment of a responsible adult to care for a child when parents are unable to do so
Juvenile cases: proceedings involving minors charged with delinquent acts or requiring court supervision

Juvenile records are generally confidential and not available to the public to protect the privacy of the minor involved. Only authorized individuals (such as legal guardians or attorneys) may request access, and even then, the court may apply restrictions.

Adoption and Paternity Matters

Family Courts handle:

Adoption proceedings, where legal parental rights are transferred
Paternity cases, which legally establish the father of a child

Adoption records in Hawaii are typically sealed and only accessible by court order. Paternity records may be part of public family court proceedings, though access can vary depending on case details and applicable privacy laws.

How to Search Hawaii Family Court Records Online

Searching for Hawaii Family Court records online can help individuals understand the status or history of certain family-related legal matters. These records may include information about divorce records, custody, child support, guardianship, and other civil family court proceedings. While some records are publicly available, others may be restricted by law due to privacy or confidentiality concerns.

Using the eCourt Kokua System

The eCourt Kokua portal, operated by the Hawaii State Judiciary, is the primary online tool used to access publicly available case information. It covers civil, family (adult), and appellate cases across multiple circuit courts in Hawaii.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using eCourt Kokua:

Visit the official website: eCourt Kokua – Hawaii State Judiciary
Select the type of search: Choose between party name, case number, or citation number.
Input search details: Enter the required information (e.g., full name or case ID) to filter results.
Review search results: Available case dockets, filings, and court dates may appear. Some details—such as party names and case titles—can be reviewed without an account.
Download availability: Certain documents may be available to download or view. There may be a fee depending on the type and number of pages.

Accessing Limited Records via the Ho‘ohiki Portal

For older or non-criminal family court cases, the Ho‘ohiki portal offers limited docket-level access. It primarily includes case titles, dates, and general filing summaries.

How to Use the Ho‘ohiki Portal:

Go to the official Ho‘ohiki site: Ho‘ohiki Search
Select the circuit court: You’ll need to choose the appropriate judicial circuit where the case was filed.
Enter party name or case number: Input a full or partial name for the best results.
View available case summaries: The portal displays docket entries like dates and brief descriptions but does not allow access to detailed filings or documents.

Required Information for Online Searches

To conduct an effective online search, it’s helpful to have one or more of the following:

Full legal name of an individual involved in the case
Case number or docket ID
Filing date or approximate time period
Judicial circuit where the case was heard

Without these details, search results may be limited or unavailable, especially for common names or older records.

Limitations of Online Access

While Hawaii’s online court systems offer helpful tools for accessing public case information, it is important to understand what these systems can and cannot provide.

Limitations include:

No access to sealed or expunged family court records
No availability of juvenile, adoption, or protective order case files
No official copies of certain filings unless requested in person or by mail
Some online documents may incur small access or download fees
Not all older cases are digitized or available online

How to Obtain Hawaii Family Court Records In Person
Visiting the courthouse in person is a practical way to request Hawaii Family Court records, especially if you need certified copies or have limited online access. This method allows individuals to communicate directly with court staff and submit required documents on-site. Access is subject to availability and legal eligibility.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Find the Right Court
Go to the Family Court where the case was filed, based on the island and location.
Prepare Case Details
Bring names of the parties, case number (if known), and filing year to help court staff locate the file.
Bring Valid ID
A government-issued ID is needed to verify your identity and request access to certain documents.
Submit a Request Form
Request the appropriate form from the clerk’s office, fill it out clearly, and specify the type of copy you need (standard or certified).
Pay Copy Fees
Pay applicable fees based on page count or certification. Payment methods vary by court.
Wait for Processing
Some documents may be available the same day. Others, especially older files, may take several days.
Family Court Locations by Island
Oʻahu (Honolulu): 777 Punchbowl St. | (808) 539-4911
Maui (Wailuku): 2145 Main St. | (808) 244-2700
Hawai‘i Island (Hilo): 777 Kilauea Ave. | (808) 961-7400
Kaua‘i (Līhuʻe): 3970 Ka‘ana St. | (808) 482-2300
Office Hours
Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on state holidays)
How to Request Family Court Records by Mail in Hawaii
Requesting family court records by mail is a practical option for those who prefer not to visit a courthouse in person. Whether you’re looking to obtain copies of past divorce filings, child custody case documents, or other related records, understanding the proper mail request process helps ensure your request is fulfilled accurately and efficiently.
Where to Send Your Mail Request (Court Mailing Addresses)
Each island in Hawaii has its own circuit court responsible for maintaining family court records. Below are the key mailing addresses by location:
Oʻahu (First Circuit Court – Family Division)
777 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
Maui (Second Circuit Court – Family Division)
Hoapili Hale
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
Hawaiʻi Island (Third Circuit Court – Family Division)
Hale Kaulike
777 Kilauea Avenue
Hilo, HI 96720
Kauaʻi (Fifth Circuit Court – Family Division)
3970 Ka‘ana Street
Līhuʻe, HI 96766
Before mailing your request, it’s helpful to call the court clerk’s office to confirm the appropriate address and procedures specific to your case type.
What to Include in Your Request
When mailing a request for family court records, provide the following to help the clerk locate and process your request quickly:
A written request letter that clearly states the type of record you need (e.g., divorce decree, custody order, guardianship case)
The full names of the parties involved in the case
The approximate date of filing or judgment
The case number, if known
A valid government-issued photo ID (a photocopy is acceptable)
A self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) for returning the documents
Your contact information, including phone and mailing address, in case follow-up is needed
Always write legibly and provide as much detail as possible to reduce delays.
Accepted Payment Methods
Family court record copies are subject to standard fees. When mailing your request, you may include one of the following accepted payment methods:
Money Order payable to: State Director of Finance
Cashier’s Check (personal checks may not be accepted)
Do not send cash through the mail
Fees may vary depending on the number of pages or whether certified copies are needed. It’s recommended to contact the respective courthouse to confirm the exact amount before mailing your request.
Processing and Delivery Time
The processing time for mailed requests depends on the court’s caseload and the completeness of your request. Typically:
Processing time: 3 to 10 business days after receipt
Delivery time: Additional 3 to 5 business days via regular U.S. mail
Delays may occur if information is missing or if the court requires clarification. Be sure to provide accurate details and complete documentation to avoid extended wait times.
Fees for Accessing Hawaii Family Court Records
Accessing Hawaii Family Court records may involve certain fees depending on how the records are requested, the type of document needed, and whether you require a certified copy. These charges are set by the Hawaii State Judiciary and may vary slightly by location. All record requests must be for personal use only and must not be used for employment, tenancy, credit, or commercial purposes.
Cost of Certified and Plain Copies
If you are requesting a plain (non-certified) copy of a document such as a divorce decree or custody order, the fee is typically between $0.50 to $1.00 per page. These copies are commonly used for personal reference and informal documentation purposes.
If you need an official certified copy, which includes a court seal and clerk authentication, there is usually an added charge of around $2.00 per document, plus the standard per-page fee. Certified copies may be necessary for personal recordkeeping, court use, or other formal situations where proof of authenticity is required.
Prices are determined by the court and may be subject to change. For accurate fee details, it is recommended to contact the Clerk’s Office of the Family Court where the record is filed.
Online vs. Offline Record Access Costs
Hawaii offers both online and offline options for accessing family court records. Online searches are primarily conducted through platforms such as eCourt Kokua and Ho‘ohiki.
When using eCourt Kokua, you may be charged a document retrieval fee, which is typically around $3.00 per document, plus additional costs per page if you choose to download or print the record.
On the other hand, Ho‘ohiki provides free access to limited case details, such as docket information and case summaries. However, it does not offer full access to case documents. This platform is helpful for individuals who need to check the existence or status of a case without needing to obtain full court papers.
If you visit a courthouse in person, you can view available records using public-access computers. Viewing records is generally free, but printed copies will incur a per-page fee. You may also submit a request to the court clerk, and any copies provided will include applicable charges for the number of pages and certification, if requested.
Free Record Searches: What You Can Access
The Hawaii Judiciary allows limited free access to certain types of information:
You can search court case information online using a party’s name, case ID, or other identifying details.
At courthouses, free on-site access to public terminals is typically available during business hours.
You may review case docket summaries and filing information online without any charges.
However, it’s important to understand that while these services allow free viewing of basic details, they do not include access to full documents, printed copies, or certified records. For any of those, you’ll need to pay the appropriate fees set by the court.
Important Legal and Usage Guidelines
All information shared here is intended to help individuals understand how to lawfully access public records for personal use. Records available from Hawaii Family Courts must not be used for:
Employment decisions
Housing or tenant evaluations
Credit checks or financial screenings
Insurance qualifications
Business or commercial assessments
Determining support eligibility or governmental benefit eligibility
Hawaii Family Court records are government-generated public records and access is provided for informational and personal purposes only. The content here is not affiliated with the Hawaii State Judiciary, and we do not offer any legal services or direct access to records. For official copies or certified requests, always refer to the appropriate Hawaii Family Court or visit the official judiciary website.
Legal Limitations and Privacy Laws
Understanding the legal boundaries surrounding Hawaii Family Court Records is essential for anyone accessing public documents for lawful and personal use. While these records may be available through official court channels or public access portals, their usage is governed by strict privacy protections and legal frameworks at both federal and state levels.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law designed to protect the privacy of student education records. While FERPA generally applies to school-based records, it can intersect with family court cases involving educational rights, custody, and access to school documents. For instance, in custody or guardianship proceedings, only legally authorized parties may request or use educational documents. Unauthorized access or use of FERPA-covered information in legal or informal proceedings is strictly prohibited.
Federal and State Confidentiality Protections
Hawaii law, alongside federal statutes, protects certain family court records from public disclosure. For example, juvenile proceedings, adoptions, and child custody cases involving abuse may be sealed or confidential. This ensures the protection of minors and sensitive family matters.
Individuals accessing Hawaii Family Court Records must understand:
Sealed records are not publicly available and can only be accessed through a legal process.
Personal identifiers (e.g., Social Security numbers, health details) may be redacted from public versions of documents.
Court orders or legal authorization is often required to access confidential files, especially in family-related cases.
All users must respect these confidentiality protections and avoid using any retrieved information in ways that could violate the privacy of individuals involved in a case.
Your Responsibility When Accessing Records
Accessing public family court records comes with a responsibility to use the information ethically and legally. All retrieved data must be used for personal, lawful purposes only.
Prohibited uses include, but are not limited to:
Commercial or business purposes
Employment-related background checks
Tenant screening or lease decisions
Credit evaluation or insurance qualification
Legal case-building against another party
Use in custody/support litigation without legal authority
The information presented through official court channels is not intended for investigative, licensing, or enforcement use and must never be repurposed for activities governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Using family court records for any of the above actions is a direct violation of both federal law and PeopleConnect’s compliance policies. Users found misusing data could be subject to legal consequences.
Use of Records in Legal Disputes
Hawaii Family Court Records may contain information relevant to legal disputes; however, such records must only be used by authorized parties and in accordance with applicable court orders. If you’re a party to a case, or a legally designated representative, you may request copies of the court file for personal legal reference.
That said, records retrieved from online court portals or physical courthouses:
Should not be presented as legal evidence without validation or court certification
Must not be altered, misrepresented, or taken out of context
Cannot be redistributed for third-party use, advertising, or publication
Only a licensed attorney or court official should interpret the legal implications of any family court document. If you are unsure about how to properly use a document obtained from court records, consider consulting a qualified legal professional for guidance.
Contact Information for Hawaii Family Courts
If you are looking to access Hawaii Family Court records—such as documents related to divorce, custody, adoption, or guardianship—knowing where to contact or visit the right clerk’s office can help simplify the process. Each island in Hawaii has its own designated Family Court, operated under the Hawaii State Judiciary. The following information is for personal and informational purposes only and should not be used for any commercial or FCRA-prohibited purpose.
Oʻahu – First Circuit (Honolulu)
First Circuit Family Court
1111 Alakea Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
📞 Phone: (808) 954-8000
🕐 Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:45 AM – 4:30 PM
🌐 Website: https://www.courts.state.hi.us
Maui County – Second Circuit (Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi)
Second Circuit Family Court (Hoapili Hale)
2145 Main Street
Wailuku, HI 96793
📞 Phone: (808) 244-2700
🕐 Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 7:45 AM – 4:30 PM
Hawaiʻi Island – Third Circuit
Third Circuit Family Court – Hilo Division
777 Kilauea Avenue
Hilo, HI 96720
📞 Phone: (808) 961-7400
Third Circuit Family Court – Kona Division
74-5451 Kamakaeha Avenue
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
📞 Phone: (808) 322-8700
Kauaʻi – Fifth Circuit
Fifth Circuit Family Court (Pu‘uhonua Kaulike Building)
3970 Ka‘ana Street
Līhu‘e, HI 96766
📞 Phone: (808) 482-2300
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking to access Hawaii Family Court Records quickly or have any questions about the process, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about searching for family-related court cases, custody filings, divorce proceedings, and other public records in Hawaii.
What are Hawaii Family Court Records?
Hawaii Family Court Records are official legal documents that record proceedings and outcomes related to family law matters. These may include divorce filings, child custody rulings, adoption papers, guardianship arrangements, and protection orders. The records serve as a detailed account of how the court handled specific family issues. While some records are public, others may be confidential based on the case type. People often refer to these records for personal reference, legal clarification, or documentation purposes.
Are Hawaii Family Court Records available to the public?
Some Hawaii Family Court Records are accessible to the public, but access depends on the nature of the case and state privacy laws. For instance, adoption and juvenile cases are typically sealed, while divorce or custody rulings may be partially viewable. Requesters may need to provide identification and valid reasons for access. Courts may redact sensitive information before releasing documents. Always check with the appropriate court for access guidelines if you’re seeking records for personal use.
What types of cases are included in Hawaii Family Court Records?
Hawaii Family Court Records include a wide variety of case types involving family law matters. Some of the most common categories are:
Divorce and legal separation cases, including spousal support and property division
Child-related matters, such as custody, visitation, guardianship, and child support
Adoption and parental rights cases, including name changes and step-parent adoptions
Domestic violence protection orders issued through family court proceedings
Each record reflects the court’s findings and legal actions, making them useful for personal documentation and family legal reference.
How can I request Hawaii Family Court Records for personal use?
To request these records, you typically need to contact the Family Court in the judicial circuit where the case was handled. You may submit a request in person, by mail, or by using the court’s forms. Information like the case number, parties’ names, and filing dates can help locate the right documents. If the case is sealed or restricted, a court order may be required. Be sure to follow Hawaii Judiciary’s procedures and guidelines when requesting records for personal review.
Why might someone need Hawaii Family Court Records?
People may need access to Hawaii Family Court Records for personal reasons such as verifying a divorce decree, understanding a custody arrangement, or documenting adoption proceedings. These records also help clarify past legal decisions that impact family matters today. Whether for legal, financial, or educational use, these documents provide essential insights into how the court resolved specific family law issues. Reviewing them can support decision-making and help ensure compliance with court orders.