English
EspañolStep 3: Preliminary court dates
The next step in the custody process is to have “preliminary” court dates. Preliminary means introductory or preparatory. These might have a different name in your state, such as “first appearance,” “status conference,” or something else. They are when certain issues can be dealt with in the early stages of the case. Some of the issues that might be dealt with are:
- problems with service of process;
- referrals to mediation;
- temporary custody and visitation orders; and
- pretrial motions.
During this stage, the judge will often give temporary custody and visitation orders that last while the case continues. The judge may include protections in a visitation order to keep you and your child safe. In some cases, the judge may assign a guardian ad litem or an attorney for the child.
For more information to help you prepare for the preliminary court dates, go to The first appearance in our Before the Trial section.
