7 Tips for Appearing in Arizona Family Court
Arizona Family Law Attorneys
On behalf of the Legalhelp-AZ. Posted in Family Law Articles on Sunday, April 29, 2012. 7 Tips for appearing in Arizona Family Court by experienced family law attorneys and lawyers at legalhelp-az.
Even with An experienced family law attorney from legalhelp-az.com, there are things a party could do or say that may negatively impact their family law case. Here are a few tips for putting your best foot forward when appearing in front of family law judges in Phoenix, Mesa, Tucson, Glendale, or throughout Arizona. It is important to remember that matters in an Arizona family law court can be emotionally charged so it’s important to adhere to the following tips so you don’t work against yourself in the courtroom. Do yourself a favor an act appropriately, no matter what the circumstance while appearing in an Arizona family law court.
- Be on time. Courts and Judges are very busy and often have back-to-back hearings. If you are late and the court has to wait for you, you are already off to the wrong start. Our experienced family law lawyers will do their best to keep you on time but ultimately you are only hurting yourself by being tardy.
- Dress appropriately. No t- shirts, spaghetti strap tops, chewing gum, hats, or sweatpants. Arizona family law court matters are serious matters and you should treat them as such. If you have doubts about what is appropriate, ask your experienced family law lawyer from legalhelp-az, we will help you.
- Be courteous to court staff. They have a direct line to the judges. If you are rude or obnoxious to court staff, the judge will definitely hear about it.
- Treat your Lawyer and you opposition’s Lawyer with respect. If you do happen to have issue with your lawyer, take it up with him after the proceedings behind closed doors. You should never argue with the opposition’s lawyers, they will be trying to make you lose your cool. Do not fall into this trap.
- Be on your best behavior. There may be times when the judge or some member of the Arizona Family Law court addresses you directly, answer clearly and refer to the judicial officer as “your honor” or “judge.” Do not interrupt the judge! Do not speak unless asked directly by the court or your attorney. Your Arizona family law attorney is working on a lot of things at once in the courtroom—making your argument, responding to questions from the judge, preparing objections, anticipating rebuttal arguments, taking notes, and making a clear record. Let your Arizona Family Law Attorney do his job, he is working hard to protect your rights.
- Get your emotions in check. Crying is ok, but do not speak out or exclaim anything unless you are asked a direct question. No profanity! If you are frustrated with your attorney or something that has happened inside the Arizona family courtroom, save it for after the hearing.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Court is a foreign experience for most family law litigants. If you have questions about the proceedings, what is being said, or procedure ask your attorney. Ask your attorney the questions that you have, do not interupt or question the judge. At the end of some hearings, judges will ask parties if they have any questions. If you have a question—speak up then! This is your life, your children, your rights, and your money and you should be well-informed about what is going on and what your options are.
Contact our experienced Arizona family law attorneys today. We will help you in your time of need. We offer FREE initial consultations, payment plans, and the experienced you want on your side when dealing with family law issues in Arizona.
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