Essential Documents
Filed Court Documents:
- Original petition or complaint
- All filed motions and responses
- Proof of service for all documents
- Court orders from previous hearings
- Case docket or summary
Exhibits and Evidence:
- Pre-marked exhibits with labels (A, B, C or 1, 2, 3)
- Exhibit list describing each item
- Three copies of each exhibit (judge, opposing party, yourself)
- Original documents if authenticity might be challenged
Supporting Declarations:
- Your declaration under penalty of perjury
- Witness declarations or affidavits
- Expert reports if applicable
- Financial declarations or income evidence
Organizational Tools
Binders or Folders:
- Separate sections for filed documents, exhibits, and notes
- Tab dividers for easy reference
- Chronological or topic-based organization
- Backup copies of critical documents
Reference Materials:
- Relevant statutes or case law citations
- Local court rules
- Prepared outline or script for your argument
- Questions for witnesses or opposing party
Practical Items
Note-Taking Supplies:
- Legal pad or notebook
- Multiple pens (black or blue ink)
- Highlighters for marking documents during hearing
- Post-it flags for quick reference
Time and Financial Tools:
- Calendar (paper or electronic) showing dates and schedules
- Calculator for financial calculations
- Records of income, expenses, or support payments
- Check or credit card for any court fees
Hearing-Specific Preparations
Custody Hearings:
- Parenting plan proposals
- School records and report cards
- Medical records for children
- Documentation of involvement in children's lives
Support Hearings:
- Income and expense declarations
- Pay stubs or tax returns
- Proof of childcare or medical expenses
- Child support guideline calculations
Motion Hearings:
- The specific motion being heard
- Supporting declarations and exhibits
- Legal authority (statutes or case law)
- Proposed orders for the judge
Courtroom Etiquette and Appearance
Dress Code:
- Business attire or business casual
- Conservative clothing (avoid revealing or casual clothes)
- Clean and neat appearance
- Minimal jewelry and accessories
Behavior:
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early
- Turn off cell phone completely (not just silent)
- Don't bring food, drinks, or gum
- Stand when the judge enters or exits
- Address the judge as 'Your Honor'
- Speak only when asked or given permission
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat if I forget to bring a document?▾
AInform the judge immediately. You may be able to get a continuance to retrieve it, submit it later, or the judge may proceed without it depending on its importance. Having organized copies and backup documents can prevent this issue.
QCan I use my phone or tablet for documents?▾
ACheck your court's local rules. Some courts allow electronic devices for reference, but most require paper copies for the judge. Many courtrooms prohibit all electronic devices. Always bring paper copies as a backup.
QHow many exhibits can I bring?▾
AThere's typically no limit, but judges prefer concise, relevant exhibits. Quality over quantity. Mark only the most important documents as exhibits. Excessive exhibits may annoy the judge and dilute your strongest evidence.
Sources
- Federal Rules of Civil Procedure — General hearing and trial procedures
- Court Procedures - How Courts Work — Court appearance and hearing guidance
- Self-Help Resources — State-specific hearing preparation resources