Parking: Court parking is not always easy or close. Be prepared to get from public parking to the courthouse.

Security Check: Everyone needs to go through security to get into court, you will need to remove any hats and jackets and empty your pockets. Security often asks folks to remove their belts and shoes as well. All bags will go through an x-ray.

Entering the Courtroom: Go into the courtroom and stay there until the judge calls your name. If the courtroom is closed, wait outside until court staff opens the door or calls you in.

Interpreter: Ask for an interpreter and the Court will give you one. The Court will not give you an attorney.

Gather evidence and practice telling your side of the story.

Evidence includes:

• Your own testimony (your side of the story)
• Other witnesses (anyone with personal knowledge of the events)
• Written documents (emails, texts, letters, notices, proof of payments or income, etc.)
• Photographs and videos.

Order of Events

1. The Judge will call the case
2. Opening Statements: Both sides can give a brief statement about what they will argue and what evidence they will present.
3. Plaintiff’s Case: the plaintiff (the person who filed the case) explains their side of the story and presents their evidence.
   • It is the plaintiff’s job to establish all the facts and convince the Judge that they are right. The Plaintiff CAN call you to testify.
   • You can “cross-examine” the other side (ask them questions about their testimony)
4. Defendant’s Case: the defendant will present their side of the story and their evidence.
   • The Plaintiff can cross-examine the Defendant when the Defendant is finished speaking.
5. Closing Statements: brief statements summarizing your evidence and asking on last time for the Judge to decide in your favor.
6. Judge’s Decision: after hearing both sides and considering the evidence, the Judge will enter a final judgment.

Circuit Court

General District Court

Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court