Prepare for Court

A comprehensive checklist to help you feel prepared and protected on your court date.

Overall Progress0/47 items

Important: This checklist is a general guide and does not replace legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney about your specific situation. Items marked with ★ are especially critical.

Documents to Bring

Physical and digital copies of key records

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Printed TruthLog entries (Evidence Mode)★

Printed conversation analysis report from SafeSpace★

Printed Safety Plan with emergency contacts

All text message screenshots (printed & on phone)

Email records showing threatening or abusive messages★

Voicemail transcripts or recordings (if applicable)

Photos of injuries, property damage, or evidence

Medical records documenting injuries

Police reports or incident numbers

Any existing restraining orders or protective orders

Birth certificates (for custody hearings)

School or medical records for children (if relevant)

Legal Preparation

Steps to take before your court date

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Consult with a domestic violence attorney or legal aid★

Review all documents with your attorney before court

Write a clear, factual timeline of key incidents

Prepare a list of witnesses who can corroborate your account

Know the specific relief you are requesting (custody, protection order, etc.)★

Understand the court process — ask your attorney to walk you through it

File all required paperwork before the deadline

Make 3 copies of every document (one for you, one for attorney, one for court)

Safety Planning for Court Day

Protecting yourself before, during, and after

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Arrange for a support person to accompany you★

Notify courthouse security if you have a protective order

Plan to arrive early to avoid contact in the parking lot

Identify a safe waiting area away from the other party

Have a plan for after court (safe place to go, person to call)

Keep your phone charged and with you at all times

Tell a trusted person your schedule for the day

Know the courthouse layout — exits, bathrooms, security desk

If Children Are Involved

Custody and child safety considerations

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Document all missed or disrupted visitation incidents

Bring records of children's school attendance and grades

Bring pediatric records showing medical care you've provided

Note any statements children have made (write them down verbatim)

Have childcare arranged for the day of court★

Know the children's current school, doctor, and daily routine

Document any parental alienation attempts

Financial Records

For divorce, support, or asset-related hearings

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Bank statements for the past 12 months

Tax returns for the past 2–3 years

Pay stubs or proof of income (yours and theirs if known)

Records of joint accounts, debts, and assets

Documentation of financial abuse (withheld funds, unauthorized charges)

Receipts for expenses related to children

Support Resources

People and organizations to contact

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Attorney contact info saved in phone★

National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (saved in phone)

Local domestic violence shelter or advocate contact

Trusted friend or family member who knows your situation

Victim advocate at the courthouse (many courthouses have them)

Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741

Your progress is saved automatically to this device. to share with your attorney or bring to court.

Prepare for Court

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