Navigating the family court process in Connecticut can sometimes feel daunting. Whether you are facing a divorce, legal separation, or a custody matter, knowing what to expect can help you feel prepared and confident as you move forward. In this blog, we’ll discuss what a “Case Date” is, and what you can expect to happen at your Case Date.
What is a Case Date?
After your case is filed in a Connecticut family court, you may be scheduled for what’s called a “Case Date.” Case Dates are interim hearing dates scheduled in new cases involving dissolution of marriage, legal separation, custody, and visitation. These hearings allow the court to address issues that need resolution prior to the final trial date. During a Case Date, a judge may consider temporary orders on matters such as custody, child support, or other issues that require attention while the case is ongoing. The judge may also review progress on court-ordered services and schedule additional hearing dates as needed.
It is important to note that Case Dates are not intended for final trials. Instead, they serve as checkpoints to monitor progress, ensure the case remains on track, and to address issues requiring temporary court orders. However, if the parties have reached a final agreement by a Case Date, the judge can review and approve it, potentially resolving the case on that date. The number of Case Dates scheduled in your case, and the court time available at each, will depend on the track the court assigns to your case during the Resolution Plan Date.
What to Expect on Your Case Date
On your assigned Case Date, you will first participate in a conference with a Family Relations Counselor, an employee of the court trained in family matters. The Family Relations Counselor will meet with you, the other party, and your attorneys (if retained) to discuss your case and any pending motions. The purpose of the conference is to explore areas of agreement and identify issues in dispute. Frequently, parties are able to reach an agreement resolving their issues at the conference and can avoid the need for a full hearing on their pending motion(s).
After the conference with Family Relations, you will attend a hearing before a judge. The Family Relations Counselor who conducted your conference will relate to the judge the status of your matter. If your conference ended with an agreement on a motion, that agreement will be presented to the judge for his/her review. If approved, the judge will incorporate your agreement into a court order.
If your conference did not end with an agreement, then a full hearing on the motion(s) will proceed with each party presenting testimony before the judge. Based on said testimony, the judge will issue temporary orders to resolve the dispute. The judge may also order an additional hearing and/or a status conference for a future date.
Get Legal Guidance for the Best Result
Case Dates are an integral part of the family court process in Connecticut, serving as checkpoints to manage temporary issues and ensure progress toward a resolution. Whether the outcome is a temporary order or a final agreement, these hearings play a critical role in shaping the path toward resolving your case. With proper preparation and legal guidance, you can make the most of your Case Date and work toward a fair and effective outcome.
If your case has been scheduled for a Case Date, contact the attorneys at the Connecticut Family Law Group today at (203) 344-7007 or (860) 266-1166 to schedule an initial consultation. Our team of attorneys can provide you with the support and representation necessary to achieve the best possible outcome in your divorce.