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Court Hearing Preparation Checklist

Hearings are short. Preparation is what lets you use the minutes you get.

Written by A Father's Fight Editorial Team Last updated
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Key takeaways

  • Bring three copies of every exhibit.
  • Write your one-page ask before you walk in.

Personal experience

The day of

Arrive early, phone silenced, dressed as you would for a job interview. Speak only to the judge, never to the other parent. Answer questions directly and stop.

Based on one father's experience. Not legal advice; outcomes vary by state and case.

Checklist

  1. 1Read the notice: date, time, courtroom, what the hearing decides
  2. 2Write a one-page summary of what you are asking for and why
  3. 3Organize exhibits with labels (A, B, C) and three copies each
  4. 4Prepare a proposed order or parenting plan to hand up
  5. 5Review your own texts and social media for anything harmful
  6. 6Arrange childcare and time off work
  7. 7Plan to arrive 30 minutes early
  8. 8Dress conservatively; remove hats and sunglasses
  9. 9Bring ID, your case number, and a notepad
  10. 10Practice answering the hardest question you expect, calmly

Sources

  1. [1]National Center for State Courts — Self-Help Directory

A Father's Fight provides general educational information and personal experiences. It is not a law firm and this page is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney in your state. See our disclaimer and editorial policy.