Be on time. Plan to spend extra time finding a parking spot and going through security.

Dress appropriately (as if you had a job interview). Don't wear sleeveless or low-cut tops, flip flops, hats, shorts, or jeans. Look respectful and professional. Borrow something if you can and don't have anything to wear.

Do not bring anyone under 18 into the courtroom. If you have children, do your best to find childcare on the day of your hearing.

Be prepared to spend all day in court. (There may be hearings before yours.) Plan your childcare accordingly.

Do not chew gum in court.

Turn off your cell phone before entering the courtroom or leave it in the car.

Speak respectfully to the judge and call him/her, "Your Honor."

Do not engage in arguments or answer back to the other side in court. If something is said that you disagree with, say, "Your Honor, may I respond?" Then speak directly to the judge. You normally have the opportunity to tell your story directly to the judge.

Never talk over the judge or the other attorney or party. Remember, the court reporter has to type every word that is said. You will have a chance to respond once the question is fully asked.

Be sure to answer the question that you are asked. Resist the urge to explain the "back story" unless it directly relates to the question asked or to a point that is necessary for your case. If you give too many details that are unimportant, you risk having the important facts covered up by all of the unnecessary information.

Try to remain calm. Take deep breaths if you feel yourself getting tense. Never lose your temper in the courtroom.

Have your witnesses there and ready.

Have your documents there and ready.

If you have subpoenaed witnesses or documents and they are not in court, you should inform the judge.

If the other side comes to court with a lawyer and you do not have a lawyer, you can ask the judge for a "continuance" so you can look for a lawyer.

Always tell the truth.

If you don't understand a question, just say so. Never make up an answer.

Remember that you know your story better than anyone - you are the expert. Don't let the other side or the judge or a lawyer confuse you.

It may help to have a short statement prepared that outlines what you want and why you want it. You can refer back to this statement if you "freeze up" or "get flustered".

You may want to practice what to say before you get to court.