What Parents Need to Know to be Prepared for Family Court
When parents go to family court, they need to be sure they are clear on what has happened. They should leave court with a full understanding of:
- What they have been mandated to do
- How much time they have to do these things
- What will happen if they do not comply (do these things within the specified time frame)
- Who can help them
- The steps in an abuse/neglect proceeding (what will happen next)
- The long-term implications of their decisions
Making a Good Impression
- Come early, but expect to wait
- Try to avoid bringing children along, if possible
- Dress neatly and appropriately
- Act respectful – do not interrupt the judge or others involved in the case
- If papers are brought along, they should be neat, and typed, if possible
- Parents should keep several copies of any special court papers (such as orders of protection, visitation or custody orders)
- Never leave court without knowing what the parent needs to do before the next court date
- Call ahead about being late or having to cancel
- Never sign anything without reading it first
- Ask for clarification if anything is unclear
- Don’t make important decisions without talking with the attorney first
- Keep copies of everything signed
