N.Y. Family Court Act § 216-c: Preparation of petitions

§ 216-c. Preparation of petitions. (a) Whenever a petitioner is not

represented by counsel, any person who assists in the preparation of a

petition shall include all allegations presented by the petitioner.

(b) No clerk of the court or probation officer may prevent any person

who wishes to file a petition from having such petition filed with the

court immediately.

(c) If there is a question regarding whether or not the family court

has jurisdiction of the matter, the petition shall be prepared and the

clerk shall file the petition and refer the petition to the court for

determination of all issues including the jurisdictional question.

(d) This section shall not be applicable to juvenile delinquency

proceedings.