Rule 17 Jurisdiction

The Trial Division of the High Court has jurisdiction over all relinquishments and terminations of parental rights. However, a justice of the Trial Division may appoint a district court judge to act as referee to hear uncontested relinquishment and termination cases. The findings and order of the referee shall become the order of the Trial Division unless a written appeal is filed with the clerk within 5 days of the referee’s finding and order.