Understanding What to Expect at a Pretrial Conference
What should you expect at a pretrial conference? Hi, I’m Tulsa family lawyer Carl Birkhead. I’m an attorney with Wirth Law Office in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I’ve been practicing family and criminal law for almost eight years now, and I want to help you make law easy by talking about what a pretrial conference is and what that looks like for you.
The Purpose of a Pretrial Conference
A pretrial conference is the last hearing before your trial, especially for family cases like divorce, custody, or adoption. While different counties may handle it differently, generally, this is where you’ll exchange witness lists and exhibits with the other side. Some courts may even require that your full trial binder be ready to hand over. It’s important to be prepared—your lawyer, the opposing party, and their lawyer all need to attend. If someone doesn’t show up, the court could issue a default judgment.
At this stage, make sure you’re 100% aligned with your lawyer. Meet before the pretrial to discuss your evidence, witnesses, and strategy so there are no surprises when trial day comes. If you need help or have any questions, give us a call.
How to Prepare for Your Pretrial Conference
Being prepared for a pretrial conference involves several key steps. First, ensure that all your documents and evidence are in order. This includes any witness lists and exhibits you plan to present. Review everything with your lawyer to make sure it aligns with your strategy. This preparation will help prevent any last-minute surprises or complications during the trial.
Additionally, consider attending a mock trial or rehearsal with your attorney. This can give you a sense of what to expect and help you feel more comfortable with the proceedings. Remember, the more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel in the courtroom.
Schedule Your Strategy Session Today
My name is Carl Birkhead. I’m a Tulsa family law attorney with Wirth Law Office, and I want to help you make law easy. If you’re facing a pretrial conference and need expert legal guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Call 918-879-1681 to schedule a low-cost initial strategy session. Let’s work together to ensure you’re fully prepared and confident as you head into your pretrial conference.
