How to Prepare for Your Family Law Trial
Going to trial in a family law case can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re fighting for custody, dividing property, or resolving spousal support, how you prepare, present yourself, and behave in court can make a big difference. Here’s a guide to help you put your best foot forward when it matters most.
1. Preparing for Trial
Preparation is the foundation of success. Your attorney will handle the legal strategy, but you play a crucial role too:
Be Organized: Gather any documents your attorney requests early. Financial records, text messages, school records, or anything relevant to your case should be complete and neatly organized.
Know Your Story: Be familiar with the facts of your case. You don’t need to memorize a script, but you should understand the timeline and key points. Review your discovery responses and pleadings.
Practice Answering Questions: Your lawyer may schedule a preparation session to walk you through potential questions. Answer honestly and stay calm, even under pressure.
Respect Court Orders: If the court has already issued temporary orders (like custody schedules or restraining orders), follow them carefully leading up to trial. Violations can seriously harm your credibility.
Prepare Emotionally: Trials can stir up strong emotions. Working with a therapist, coach, or trusted friend to process your feelings ahead of time can help you stay composed when you’re on the stand.
2. Dressing for Trial
Think of trial as a formal job interview. Your appearance sends a message about how seriously you take the proceedings:
Choose Professional, Conservative Attire: Business or business-casual clothing is appropriate. Think suits, dress slacks, blouses, knee-length skirts, or modest dresses.
Keep It Simple: Avoid loud colors, flashy jewelry, or distracting patterns. Stick with neutral tones like navy, gray, black, or beige.
Mind the Details: Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and fit well. Neat hair, and trimmed nails are recommended.
Comfort Matters Too: Trials can be long. Wear something you can sit, stand, and walk in comfortably.
3. Acting Appropriately in Court
Your behavior in and out of the courtroom can impact the judge’s perception of you:
Be On Time: Arriving late to court can make a terrible impression. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow for parking, security checks, and finding your courtroom.
Be Respectful: Always address the judge as "Your Honor," and avoid interrupting anyone while they are speaking — even if you disagree.
Stay Calm: If something upsetting happens, do your best to remain composed. Rolling your eyes, sighing loudly, or showing anger can hurt your credibility.
Listen to Your Attorney: If your lawyer tells you to wait, not answer, or handle something a certain way, follow their lead.
Stay Off Social Media: Don’t post about your case online. Even seemingly harmless comments can be used against you. However, if you do post, don’t delete evidence once you’re aware of pending or ongoing litigation.
Act Respectfully Toward Your Ex: Even if you’re hurt or angry, maintain a polite and neutral demeanor. Judges notice when one party stays composed while the other behaves badly.
Final Thoughts
Remember: the judge doesn't know you personally — they only see the version of you that shows up in court. By preparing thoroughly, dressing appropriately, and acting respectfully, you help your attorney present the strongest case possible on your behalf.
At Lotspeich Law, we make sure our clients are ready for every step of the trial process. If you have questions or need help preparing for your day in court, we’re here to guide you.
