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1. The self-help divorce petition says I can ask for spousal support if my spouse contributed to my educational opportunities. Since my husband stayed home to watch the children while I took night classe

As court personnel, I don’t have the legal knowledge to determine whether your circumstances meet the legal criteria. I can explain what information the form is asking from you, but I cannot help you decide what information to enter. If you have questions about whether certain information is appropriate to enter on the forms, an attorney can advise you.

2. What is Ex Parte Communication?

Black’s Law Dictionary defines ex parte as “on one side only; by or for one party; done for one party only.”

With few exceptions, the court rules require that all documents filed with the court be given to all other parties in the case so that the other parties have an opportunity to respond. It is improper for personnel to transmit information in writing and/or verbal to the Judge unless that information has been provided to the other parties in the case.

“Ex Parte” refers to situations in which only one party appears before a judge. Such meetings are often forbidden.

3. What is a confidential case/Information?

Some documents or entire cases are confidential, sealed or secret, and court personnel cannot disclose confidential, sealed or secret information. Listed below are case types that are confidential and/or sealed:

1. Adoptions
2. Severance
3. Juvenile Dependency
4. Juvenile Abortion
5. Mental Health

4. I need to speak to the Judge assigned to my case, how can I speak to him?

The Judge speaks with all parties to a case only at the same time in order to ensure fairness and impartiality. If the Judge speaks to a party on one side of a dispute without the other party present, it is ex parte communication.

5. I have a court hearing scheduled for review, what will the Judge say or order?

Court personnel cannot speculate on what a Judge might say or do. Judges base their decision on the law and the facts presented to the Court.

6. I want a public defender/court appointed attorney assigned to my case. How do I get one?

Parties are not entitled to court-appointed counsel in all types of matters. If the party requests in writing to the court, the Judge will inform the party if the party is eligible for court-appointed counsel.

7. Where can I find information on Arizona’s laws and rules?

Arizona’s statutes (laws passed by the state legislature) are available in any law library and many public libraries. They may also be viewed on the Arizona State Legislature website.

8. I got a notice stating that my case has been placed on the inactive calendar. What am I supposed to do now?

Inactive notices may be sent when there has been no action taken on a case or if there has been no service on a case. The notice explains options available to the parties, who must choose the option that best fits the situation. Parties who are not sure what to do may want to consult an Attorney.

9. Can you look over my forms and tell me if I did it right?

Court personnel may tell a party if the party has provided all the required information. Court personnel cannot tell a party whether the information provided is correct or legally sufficient.

10. I have just moved, how can I update my address with the Court?

All parties involved in court cases should update their address immediately. The Superior Court currently has a Change of Address form (PDF) available. You may print and complete the form then submit to the clerk for filing.