Free courtroom prep checklist

Fifteen things judges wish self-represented people knew.

The exact checklist I would hand a friend the night before her hearing. Print it, save it to your phone, or check it off before you walk into court.

Enter your info to the right →

CourtReadyGuide
The 15 Things Checklist
Before you walk into court, check these off.
Know your case number, hearing type, and judge.
Bring three printed copies of every document.
Address the judge as "Your Honor," always.
✓
Never argue with opposing counsel or interrupt.
plus 11 more inside
Get the checklist

Delivered to your inbox in seconds.

Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

What is inside

Fifteen things, three sections, one clear path.

01
Before you go
What to file, what to print, and what to know about your judge before you show up.
02
In the courtroom
How to address the judge, when to speak, and the five things that make you look prepared.
03
After the hearing
What to do the next 24 hours, how to follow up, and how to prep for the next step.
Prep timeline included
A day-by-day countdown so you know exactly what to do the week before, the night before, and the morning of your hearing.
AB
Written by

Amanda Bynum

Sixteen years as a trial lawyer, including years as a public defender and criminal defense attorney. I have watched thousands of people walk into court without knowing what to expect. This checklist is the shortcut I wish they had.

CourtReadyGuide is an educational resource. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Amanda Bynum is licensed in Arizona. Built to work in any courtroom. Copyright 2026 CourtReadyGuide.