Fersch Petitti LLC – Matrimonial & Family Law

How to prepare for Court:

• Get rest the night before and eat a decent meal before Court. You may be in Court for many hours and you are not permitted to bring food or drink into the Courthouse.
• You should arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled Court appearance, in order to get through security. It is very important not to be late, unless in the case of an emergency. If you are going to be late, contact your attorney or the office as soon as possible so they may update the Court on your whereabouts and estimated time of arrival.
• Dress with respect. You don’t need to wear a suit, but you should be in appropriate business casual attire (slacks, collared shirts, skirt or dress, closed-toe shoes, modest neck lines and hems, etc.). Do not wear jeans, t-shirts, shorts, revealing attire, flip-flop sandals or sneakers.
• Do not bring an entourage with you. It is generally fine to bring one family member or friend for support. This person should be calm and nonconfrontational, i.e. the type of person who makes you feel calm and secure rather than angry or upset. It is almost never advisable to bring your new boyfriend or girlfriend to Court. You also should not bring your children unless the Court or the children’s lawyer directs you to bring them or you have no alternate childcare available, your case is in Family Court and your children are young enough to be placed in the childcare facility there. If you are unsure if the person you wish to bring to Court is appropriate, ask your attorney.
• Your attorney will work with you before the Court appearance to prepare you for what is likely to occur on that day.