What to Bring
Essential items for your hearing:
- All filed documents (originals + 2 copies)
- Exhibits labeled and organized (A, B, C, etc.)
- Calendar showing relevant dates
- Notes on key points you want to make
- Photo ID and case number
- Pen and notepad for taking notes
Exhibit Labeling
- Use letters (A, B, C) for your exhibits
- Numbers (1, 2, 3) are typically for the other party's exhibits
- Label each page in the bottom right corner
- Bring extra copies for the judge and opposing party
- Keep exhibits in order and easy to access
What to Avoid
Critical mistakes to avoid in court:
- Don't interrupt the judge
- Don't argue with the other party directly
- Don't bring up irrelevant history
- Don't read from a script word-for-word
- Stay focused on facts, not emotions
- Don't make personal attacks
- Don't volunteer information beyond what's asked
Before You Walk In
Pre-hearing preparation:
- Arrive 15 minutes early
- Turn off your phone completely
- Use the restroom
- Take three deep breaths
- Review your key points one final time
- Remember: you're presenting facts, not arguing
In the Courtroom
Courtroom etiquette and behavior:
- Stand when the judge enters
- Address the judge as 'Your Honor'
- Speak clearly and at a normal pace
- Answer only what's asked
- If you don't know, say 'I don't know'
- Wait for your turn to speak
- Remain calm and respectful throughout
This is not legal advice. This is basic courtroom hygiene for self-represented litigants.
Frequently asked questions
QWhat if I forget to bring a document?▾
AIf you realize before the hearing starts, ask the court clerk if you can retrieve it. If it's during the hearing, inform the judge immediately. You may need to request a continuance or submit the document later, depending on its importance.
QWhat if I'm too nervous to speak clearly?▾
AIt's normal to be nervous. Take slow, deep breaths. Pause before answering questions. If you need a moment, it's okay to say 'May I have a moment to collect my thoughts, Your Honor?' Judges understand that self-represented litigants are nervous.
QWhat if I arrive late to the hearing?▾
AArrive early to avoid this. If unavoidable, enter quietly, wait for an appropriate pause, and apologize briefly to the judge. Explain if there was an emergency. The judge may proceed without you if you're significantly late, so call the court clerk immediately if you know you'll be late.
Sources
- Court Procedures - How Courts Work — Courtroom procedures and expectations
- Federal Rules of Civil Procedure — Federal court procedures and rules
- Representing Yourself in Court — Resources for self-represented litigants