Going to court can feel like the first day at a new school.You may not know exactly what will happen.You may meet new people.You may have questions.That’s okay.
What should I bring?
You usually do not need to bring very much.You may want to bring:
A favorite book
A favorite stuffed animal friend
A sweater or jacket
A snack for before or after court
Something to help pass the time while you wait
Ask your advocate or trusted adult if you have questions about what you can bring.
Is court like school?
Court and school are different, but they have some things in common.In both places:
There are rules to follow.
People take turns talking.
Someone may ask you questions.
It is okay to ask for help if you do not understand something.
You are expected to tell the truth.
Just like at school, nobody expects you to know everything.Adults are there to help you.
What’s okay to think?
It is okay to think:
“I wish I didn’t have to do this.”
“I’m nervous.”
“I can do hard things.”
“I want this to be over.”
“I have questions.”
All of those thoughts are normal. Sometimes we just have to do these things for good and hard reasons.
What’s okay to feel?
All feelings are welcome.You might feel:
Brave
Scared
Angry
Sad
Confused
Calm
Relieved
You might even feel different feelings at different times.That’s normal too.
Before you go into court
Take a slow breath.Look around.Notice the people who are there to support you.Remember that you are not alone.
The most important thing
You do not have to be perfect.You do not have to remember everything.You do not have to know what will happen next.You only need to tell the truth about what you remember.
