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.
Applicants that are receiving assistance from TANF (Temporary Assistance to Needy Families) or Food Stamps; have an income that is insufficient or barely sufficient to meet the daily essentials of life; or if the applicant demonstrates other good cause are eligible for a fee waiver or deferral. If your monthly income is less than 150% of the current federal poverty level or if your income is more than 150% of the current federal poverty level and you have proof of extraordinary expenses, you may be eligible to apply for a fee waiver or deferral.
Prior to filing a request for a fee waiver or deferral you will need the following:
- Time and patience
- Names of individuals you financially support (this includes child support and spousal maintenance)
- Employer name and phone number (if employed)
- Income from last year
- Monthly income
- Spouse's monthly income
- Monthly debts and expenses
- Remaining balance on loans
- Current money available in accounts
- If you are currently enrolled in a Government Assistance Program you will need to provide proof that you were enrolled prior to filing and that you are the recipient of the benefits
- Social security number (if applicable)
- If known, last address of the person you are serving the Affidavit in Support of Application for Deferral or Waiver of Service of Process Fees
You can request a fee waiver or deferral for:
- Filing a case
- Issuance of a summons or subpoena
- Cost of attending an educational program
- 1 certified copy of a temporary order in a family law case
- 1 certified copy of the final order of a court
- Preparation of the record on appeal
- Fees for reporters or transcribers
- Services of process costs
- Service by publication