Preparing for Your Day in Family Court

Custody hearings in California are usually much shorter than parents expect. In many courts, a Request for Order hearing lasts 10 to 20 minutes. That's why preparation matters so much.

Before the hearing, the judge will usually have read:

•       Both parents' filings and declarations

•       The mediator's report or recommendation, in counties that use one

•       Any evaluations or investigation reports

At the hearing, judges look for three things: a clear request, stability for the child, and reasoning that focuses on the child rather than the conflict between parents. Your testimony should match your paperwork. Inconsistencies hurt credibility quickly.

A few practical tips from my years in California courtrooms:

•       Arrive early, and bring three copies of everything you filed

•       Speak to the judge, not the other parent

•       Answer the question asked, briefly

•       Have a proposed parenting schedule ready

If you're representing yourself, it's normal to feel nervous. A clear plan and organized documents make a real difference.

If you have a custody hearing coming up, call me at 877-4CA-FCLS (877-422-3257) for a free consultation.