Practice Areas
Common Family Law Matters in Hawaii
Family law in Hawaii encompasses divorce, child custody, adoption, and domestic relations matters handled through the state's Family Court system. Hawaii's family law statutes incorporate cultural considerations unique to the islands, including Native Hawaiian customs in certain proceedings. The state's geographic isolation often requires specialized knowledge of interstate custody issues and military family considerations given the significant military presence. Hawaii attorneys must navigate both state law and federal military regulations that frequently impact island families.
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Divorce and legal separation
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Child custody and visitation
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Child and spousal support
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Family Law Attorneys by City in Hawaii
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Why It Matters
Why Hire a Family Law Attorney in Hawaii?
Hawaii-licensed attorneys understand the state's unique family law statutes and local court procedures that differ significantly from mainland jurisdictions. The Hawaii State Bar requires attorneys to maintain specific continuing education in family law, ensuring they stay current with evolving state statutes and court rules.
Local Courts
Family law cases in Hawaii are handled by the Family Court of the First Circuit (Oahu), Second Circuit (Maui County), Third Circuit (Hawaii County), and Fifth Circuit (Kauai and Niihau). These specialized courts have exclusive jurisdiction over divorce, custody, adoption, and other domestic relations matters.
Hawaii Law
Hawaii Family Law Laws & Deadlines
Hawaii follows equitable distribution principles for marital property division and recognizes both no-fault and fault-based divorce grounds under Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 580. The state requires a mandatory waiting period and often mandates mediation before contested family court proceedings. Hawaii law includes specific provisions for military families and recognizes customary Native Hawaiian adoption practices in certain circumstances.
Key Facts
What to Know About Family Law in Hawaii
Cost to You
Free to submit your case
When to Act
As soon as possible to protect your rights
Attorney Cost
Hourly rates, retainers, or flat fees vary by attorney.
Our Network
Family Law attorneys as they join
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hawaii require separation before divorce filing?
Hawaii does not require a legal separation period before filing for divorce. However, spouses must have lived separate and apart for two years if filing for divorce based on separation grounds, though no-fault divorce options are also available.
How does military service affect Hawaii family law cases?
Hawaii family courts frequently handle military family cases and must comply with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. Military deployment can affect custody schedules, and military benefits like BAH and retirement pay are often significant factors in support and property division decisions.
What should I look for in a Hawaii family law attorney?
Choose a Hawaii-licensed attorney experienced with the state's Family Court system and familiar with military family issues if applicable. Look for attorneys who understand Hawaii's cultural considerations and have experience with complex property division involving high-value real estate common in the islands.
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