What to expect at a court hearing

If you filed an objection, you must go to the hearing. At the hearing the judge will ask you to explain why you disagree.

If you can't go to court in person, 

contact the court clerk or your court's Self-Help Center to find out your options. In some courts, you may be able to attend the hearing by phone or through your computer.
 

Your day in court

If this is the first time you've been in a courtroom, review some basic tips about how to plan for your day in court.

You may need to wait before your hearing

Keep in mind that other people may have a hearing the same day as you. Your case may not be called right away. You may end up waiting a few minutes or even more than an hour before it’s your turn.

The judge calls your case 

Walk to the front of the courtroom

When it is your turn, the judge will call your names and say your case number. You go up to the front. Someone, usually the bailiff or a clerk, will show you which side to take and tell you to sit down. The bailiff is usually the person in charge of keeping order in the courtroom.

Tell the judge your name and answer their questions

The judge will ask the parent who filed the request to say their name and then ask for your name. Then, you may be asked to swear to tell the truth. The judge will likely ask you why you disagree with the request. You and the other parent will both get a chance to speak.

The judge makes a decision 

The judge will mostly likely make a decision at your hearing. If they agree with the other parent's request, they'll sign an order that the parent can used to update your child's IDs and records.

The judge will make a decision at the hearing.

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