Change Happening Now Informal Hearings JEFF HALL TRIAL
- Slides: 9
Change Happening Now: Informal Hearings JEFF HALL, TRIAL COURT ADMINISTRATOR DESCHUTES COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT
“I loved my divorce trial where I had no idea what I was doing and my future relationships with the most important people in my life and my economic well being were on the line. ” No Self-Represented Litigant Ever
Enacting a Rule turned out to be more than “blessing what was already happening”. Having a rule is important.
The Basics �Case and Hearing Types �Opt-In �Waiver �Evidence
The Basics �Witnesses �Expert Witnesses �Role of Attorneys �Other
Attorney Interests � Advising potential clients at consultation stage. � More cost effective for some clients. � Limited issue(s) where the client just wants to be heard. � Tactical decision.
“…the Informal Domestic Relations Trial provides a fantastic opportunity for family law attorneys to offer their expertise and legal services to more of the population. ” “Services could include pre- trial consultations, assistance with trial preparation such as organizing exhibits, and participating in the informal trial. ” Stahancyk, Kent & Hook Blog http: //www. stahancyk. com/blog/new-informal-trial-program-in-deschutes-county
Domestic Violence �“Power and control” are placed in the hands of the judge. �Police and Medical Reports are accepted. �The victim is not subject to cross-examination by the perpetrator.
Contact Jeff Hall, Trial Court Administrator Deschutes County Circuit Court (541) 317 -4780 jeff. hall@courts. wa. gov
