There's no doubt that going to court is stressful. There is a lot you have to do to prepare your documents and your thoughts to be ready to appear before a judge.This quick guide will help explain the different steps you will have to take when you go to court. Learn what you need to do before you file your papers in court, how to prepare your case, and how to present your case in court.
- I have an upcoming court date. What are the first things I should do?
- At least 1 week before your court date, contact the court if you need:
- An interpreter
- Wheelchair access
- What else can I do to get organized?
- Make sure you have all the documents you need for your court case.
- Bring original documents. (Have copies available in case you need them.) For records from a government office or agency, get certified copies from that agency or government office.
- Decide what you want out of the case – this will help you evaluate any possibilities of settling your case without a trial.
- Prepare a page of notes to read from with all the points you want to make so you don’t forget anything. Be ready with dates, names, addresses, and dollar amounts.
- If you do not have a lawyer, visit the court’s pro se office or the pro se clerk for information about how to prepare for your case. Pro se means that you do not have a lawyer and that you are representing yourself in court. Courts cannot give legal advice about your particular case, but they can give information that may help you prepare for court.
- What should I do on my court date?
- Be on time
- Get to the courthouse 30 minutes early to go through the security check and to find the right courtroom.
- When you find your courtroom, tell your name to the clerk or the court officer.
When you enter the courtroom
- Turn off your cell phone.
- Take off your hat.
- Throw away your chewing gum.
Show respect for the Judge
- Look at the Judge when he or she is asking you a question.
- Speak loud enough for the Judge to hear you.
- Do not interrupt the Judge.
- Wait until the Judge finishes the question before you give your answer.
Speaking in court
- Be ready to state your name.
- After you state your name, you will be asked to raise your right hand and swear to tell the truth.
- You must speak your answer out loud. Do not just nod or shake your head.
- If one of the lawyers says “objection” after you have been asked a question, stop talking. Then wait for the Judge to tell you if you can answer the question.
- If you do not understand something, say “I don’t understand” and ask the Judge to repeat the question.
Additional Information
Some courts have a person to contact if you do not speak English well. Some courts have a person to contact if you are disabled. Some courts have child care help. Go to the court’s website or call or visit the court in advance to find out any services that may help.
- About this Guide
- This guide was created by the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York in partnership with the New York LawHelp Consortium and Pro Bono Net, with support from the Legal Services Corporation Technology Initiative Grant program.