Hearing Preparation Guide

Proper exhibit labeling demonstrates organization and makes it easier for the court to follow your case. Use this standard format:

[Your Last Name] - Exhibit [Number/Letter] - [Brief Description]

• Use numbers (1, 2, 3) or letters (A, B, C) sequentially
• Check your court's local rules for preference
• Use sub-numbering (1A, 1B) for related documents
• Be consistent throughout your entire case

Protect sensitive information in financial and personal documents:

• Social Security Numbers: Show only last 4 digits (XXX-XX-1234)
• Bank accounts: Show only last 4 digits (Account ****6789)
• Credit cards: Show only last 4 digits (** ** 5678)
• Driver's licenses: Redact all but last 3-4 digits

For electronic filing:

• Convert everything to PDF format
• Keep files under 10-25 MB (split if needed)
• Add bookmarks for documents over 20 pages
• Use clear, consistent file naming

For in-person hearings:

• Bring three complete sets: judge, opposing party, yourself
• Use pre-printed exhibit stickers on first page
• Three-hole punch and organize in binders with tabs

Verify these details the day before your hearing:

• Confirm hearing format (in-person, Zoom, Teams, phone)
• Verify department/courtroom number via court portal
• Test remote technology 24 hours ahead if virtual
• Plan travel to arrive 30-45 minutes early
• Screenshot your hearing details as backup

Organize your documentation:

• Three complete sets: one for judge, one for opposing party, one for you
• Pre-mark all exhibits with labels and tabs
• Bring certified originals of critical documents
• Prepare notepad and pens for taking notes

Before your hearing, clarify your position:

• Write down exactly what relief you're requesting
• Identify your 3-4 strongest supporting facts
• Anticipate questions about your weak points
• Practice calm, brief responses
• Know key statutes or 'best interest' factors

Proper courtroom conduct basics:

• Always call the judge 'Your Honor'
• Stand when the judge enters or exits
• Stand when speaking (unless told otherwise)
• Make eye contact but don't stare
• Never interrupt the judge or opposing party

Only speak at appropriate times:

• When the judge asks you a direct question
• When invited to present your case
• When asked if you have anything to add
• After requesting: 'Your Honor, may I respond?'

Your demeanor matters as much as your evidence:

• Stay calm and focused on facts
• Avoid crossing arms, rolling eyes, or sighing
• Take notes instead of reacting visibly
• Answer questions briefly without over-explaining
• If overwhelmed, ask: 'Your Honor, may I have a moment?'

For virtual hearings:

• Stay on mute when not speaking
• Look at the camera, not your reflection
• Use a neutral, well-lit background
• Have a backup device ready
• Log in 15 minutes early to test

1. Hearsay Evidence - Don't testify about what someone else said. That person needs to provide a signed declaration or testify themselves.

2. Attacking Your Ex - Frame everything around the children's needs, not personal grievances. Say 'The children are distressed' not 'He is always late.'

3. Bringing Children to Court - Most judges view this as high-conflict behavior. Keep children out unless specifically requested.

4. Late Evidence Service - Follow service deadlines strictly. The judge will likely refuse evidence the other party hasn't seen.

5. Arguing with the Judge - Say 'Thank you, Your Honor' and move on. You can appeal later, but arguing in the moment only hurts you.

What to wear and bring:

• Dress business casual (no jeans, shorts, or logo clothing)
• Silence phone completely
• Bring photo ID and case number
• Arrive 20-30 minutes early

How to respond:

• Answer the question, then stop talking
• Say 'I don't know, Your Honor' if you don't know
• Don't volunteer extra information
• Speak to the judge, not the other party

Self-represented litigants with upcoming family court hearings: divorce, custody, support modifications, or domestic violence proceedings. Review these guidelines 24 hours before your hearing, then again the morning of your appearance.