Walking into family court without a lawyer? This single-page cheat sheet tells you exactly what to do, when to do it, and what to say.
The Hearing Day Cheat Sheet is a one-page, court-tested quick reference for pro se parents. Print it, fold it into your binder, and pull it out at the courthouse when nerves take over. Every section is the answer to a question first-time pro se parents actually ask.
What's on it:
- Before You Walk In (5-minute checklist — what to bring, what to wear, when to arrive)
- Inside the Courtroom (when to stand, when to sit, when to speak)
- Forms of Address (what to call the judge, opposing counsel, opposing party, the bailiff)
- Entering an Exhibit (the exact words to say to introduce evidence)
- While Speaking (slow-down rules, "I don't know" usage, objection handling)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid (the six things that hurt pro se parents most)
- Before You Leave (what to do AFTER the judge rules)
Designed for:
- First-time pro se parents
- Custody hearings, modification hearings, contempt hearings, ex parte hearings
- Anyone who's tired of Googling "what do I call the judge" the night before
What you get:
- Instant download, single-page printable PDF (8.5 × 11)
- Print at home or the library on standard letter paper
- Print-friendly black + navy + terracotta design
- Lifetime access — re-download whenever you need
Important: This is an organizational and reference tool, not legal advice. Court rules vary by jurisdiction. For legal guidance specific to your case, consult a licensed attorney. © CarverAspen.
Walking into family court without a lawyer? This single-page cheat sheet tells you exactly what to do, when to do it, and what to say.
The Hearing Day Cheat Sheet is a one-page, court-tested quick reference for pro se parents. Print it, fold it into your binder, and pull it out at the courthouse when nerves take over. Every section is the answer to a question first-time pro se parents actually ask.
What's on it:
- Before You Walk In (5-minute checklist — what to bring, what to wear, when to arrive)
- Inside the Courtroom (when to stand, when to sit, when to speak)
- Forms of Address (what to call the judge, opposing counsel, opposing party, the bailiff)
- Entering an Exhibit (the exact words to say to introduce evidence)
- While Speaking (slow-down rules, "I don't know" usage, objection handling)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid (the six things that hurt pro se parents most)
- Before You Leave (what to do AFTER the judge rules)
Designed for:
- First-time pro se parents
- Custody hearings, modification hearings, contempt hearings, ex parte hearings
- Anyone who's tired of Googling "what do I call the judge" the night before
What you get:
- Instant download, single-page printable PDF (8.5 × 11)
- Print at home or the library on standard letter paper
- Print-friendly black + navy + terracotta design
- Lifetime access — re-download whenever you need
Important: This is an organizational and reference tool, not legal advice. Court rules vary by jurisdiction. For legal guidance specific to your case, consult a licensed attorney. © CarverAspen.
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