These are brief instructions about attending your court hearing in front of a judge or referee. To learn more about going to court, watch the Going to Court video.
Bring to your court hearing an original plus two copies of any document you wish the court to consider when making a decision in your case.
Go to the hearing location on the scheduled day and time. Dress neatly. Arrive 10 or 15 minutes before your scheduled hearing time. Tell the clerk your name, that you are there for a hearing, and that you are representing yourself. Follow the clerk’s directions and do not interrupt any hearing in progress.
When your case is called, go where you’re directed. The other party will speak first because it’s their motion. Take notes when the other party talks. Don’t interrupt them. After they speak, you will have a chance to talk. Taking notes will help you with this.
When it’s your turn to speak, be prepared to say the following things:
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Your name
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That you are representing yourself
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Whether you agree or disagree with the other party’s motion, and why
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If you have witnesses in court who are willing to testify
Clearly and directly answer any questions the judge or referee has. The evidence you give (including testimony) should be relevant to the 100-mile rule factors (if applicable to your case) and the best interest of the child factors. To learn more, read Responding to a Motion to Change Domicile.
The judge could decide to grant the other party’s motion and enter an order allowing them to move, or deny their motion. You will get a copy of the court order either at the time of the hearing or later.
If your hearing is in front of a referee, they will issue a recommendation to the judge. There will be a chance for either party to object to the recommendation before it becomes a final order.