Initial Status Conference

First meeting with the Court

Every case filed in the domestic court requires an initial status conference be held with a judicial officer or a court facilitator.  This happens very early in the process. Sometimes Orders can be entered at this conference. 

Financial Disclosures

Exchanging financial information

Certain financial disclosures are required to be exchanged in every case filed in the domestic court.  These are mandatory under all circumstances.  These are due within the first few months after a case has started.  

Experts

Specialized input can be necessary

There are several types of experts that a case may need. These include, but are not limited to, experts regarding the children (Child and Family Investigator or Parental Responsibilities Evaluator), finances (business valuators, forensic accountants, vocational evaluators), or assets (real estate appraisers, personal property appraisers). 

Final Hearing

Sometimes the court must decide

While most cases settle, if you are unable to reach a final resolution in your case, a Judge or Magistrate will make the decisions regarding finances, division of assets/debts and the allocation of parental responsibilities (custody).  This hearing is called a Permanent Orders Hearing.   

See our Process and Helpful Information pages under Resources for additional information