In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
Please be aware that not all documents may pertain to your situation. You are encouraged to Visit a Law Library for general guidance.
Before you file a lawsuit:
- Check out alternatives to filing a lawsuit
- See if you meet the requirements for filing in superior court
- Make sure it falls under the Statues of Limitations
Prior to filing for a civil lawsuit you will need the following:
- Time and patience
- Know where to file! The court to file in is decided by:
- Where the other person lives or does business (if you are suing a business)
- Where the incident that caused the lawsuit took place
- Exact name of the person or name you are suing (more information)
- How the defendant should be listed in the case
- Parent or guardian of a minor
- Sole Ownership
- Partnership
- Corporation
- Association
- Limited Liability Company
- Other
- The full name and addresses (if known) of defendant
- Type of complaint: tort, contract, or debt
- Financial amount you are claiming
Resources
Civil Lawsuit Forms for Cases Seeking Over $10,000
Frequently Asked Questions for Civil Lawsuits
Rules of Civil Procedure for the Superior Courts of Arizona