Colorado Judicial Branch

Getting ready for my Court Hearing

Who is a self-represented litigant?
You are a self-represented litigant, if you go to Court without an attorney. You could be a plaintiff/petitioner or a defendant/respondent in a civil lawsuit or a domestic case.

Will the Judge help the self-represented litigant?
No, the Judge is neutral and impartial. As a person representing yourself, you are "your own attorney". The Court will hold you to the same standards and rules as a party that is represented by an attorney. You have the burden of proof of your claims and statements. Before you come to Court, Court staff can give you general information and can point you to legal advice and information resources.

What are things I need to prepare? Know the laws (called "statutes"), rules and forms that are applicable in your Court case. Have a clear understanding of what exactly you are asking the Judge to decide. Have a clear understanding of the procedural steps in your case. Request an interpreter, if needed. Request disability accommodations, if needed. Be ready to give clear and specific arguments for your position. Example of presentation during hearing Plan to bring your witnesses. Organize your evidence. Bring enough copies of your evidence. Bring a notepad. Check before coming to Court with Sheriff's office that the Court documents in your case have been properly served to the other party. Know how to show up in the court room. More information
Do your own Legal Research	A Layperson's Guide to Legal Research and Self-help Law Books by Ken Svengalis
Watch this video "A Guide to Court" - This video was made for the courts in the State of Lousiana. Please note that our courts do not expect you to save the entire day for every hearing. For most hearings several hours will be sufficient, but please check with the front desk staff how much time you will need to be prepared for. - Thanks to ldja.org
Handbook for children who don't live at home Handbook for families in Dependency & Neglect cases