What to Expect in Arizona Family Court
Scottsdale family law attorneys guide you through proceedings
Many people have never had so much as a traffic ticket before they appear in family court. That first time in a courtroom can be intimidating, especially if you’re faced with resolving a highly emotional issue. The attorneys at Clark & Schloss Family Law, P.C. in Scottsdale, we know that litigants generally fare better when they know what to expect in Arizona family court. Based on our deep experience, we offer this introductory page.
The Arizona family court system
The term “family court” refers to the Family Department of the Arizona Superior Court, a statewide entity with one or more locations in each county. The Family Department handles marriage dissolution (divorce), legal separation and proceedings involving child and spousal support, legal decision making (child custody), parenting time (visitation) and conciliation. Although judges have ultimate authority over decision-making, the Family Department includes a range of specialty services devoted to resolving family-related disputes in non-confrontational ways that promote the best interests of all involved.
Common family court proceedings
Family court proceedings involve any aspect of domestic life that requires a legal intervention, such as:
- Divorce — Formally known as dissolution of marriage, divorce requires a court order. Depending on the complexity of the case, that order may address the rights and obligations of the parties to property, financial support, child custody and visitation. See our separate web page about what to expect in divorce court.
- Parenting issues — Parents might need a court ruling on such matters as paternity, child custody, visitation or child custody. Cases often involve allegations that one parent has infringed on the other’s parental rights or that one parent is unfit to have custody.
- Domestic violence — The family court can issue orders of protection and hold hearings to determine whether a protection order has been violated.
Several factors, especially the complexity of the issues and cooperativeness of the parties, can affect the speed of the process.
Preparing for your family court appearance
Parties’ lack of preparation can be off-putting to the judge and can cause unnecessary delays in the case. An experienced Scottsdale divorce lawyer can assemble the documentation and evidence needed and can advise you on the testimony you need to provide.
What happens in an Arizona courtroom?
A court hearing is a formal proceeding and participants must conduct themselves accordingly. Dress for business, arrive on time and be patient throughout. Parties should allow the judge to run the show and let their attorneys represent their interests. Speaking out of turn, especially in an emotional tone, will not help your case.
Post-court family law proceedings and follow-up
Some family law cases require follow-ups, such as home visits from social workers or enrollment in counseling or drug treatment programs. You might be asked to submit additional documentation of matters before the court. Your attorney can make sure that you fully understand the instructions of the court so that you can follow all requirements to the letter.
Contact our Scottsdale attorneys for a family law consultation
For knowledgeable and compassionate counsel on family law matters, call our Arizona attorneys of Clark & Schloss Family Law, P.C. To schedule a consultation at our Scottsdale office, call 602-789-3497 or contact us online.
