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Talking to the Judge
Many times, parties to a lawsuit request that they be allowed to speak to the Judge with regard to things that may come up as a part of a pending or anticipated lawsuit. They then are told that they cannot do so.
Our Court system is set up to be an adversary system. That type of system allows each side to present their best case, and the Judge then decides which side has been most convincing. This system also provides an opportunity to cross-examine the other side in order to point out weaknesses in the other side's case. At the heart of the system is the idea that neither side should have any better opportunity to present its views than the other has.
Why Can't I Talk to the Judge?
Our Court system is set up to be an adversary system. That type of system allows each side to present their best case, and the Judge then decides which side has been most convincing. This system also provides an opportunity to cross-examine the other side in order to point out weaknesses in the other side's case. At the heart of the system is the idea that neither side should have any better opportunity to present its views than the other has.
Rules set forth by the Supreme Court tell a Judge that he or she is not to receive evidence or argument about a case unless each side has received notice and has an opportunity to be heard. A Judge typically is not allowed to listen to something that is being presented by only one party. Such a situation would be unfair to the other side.
The Judge and the Judge's staff also are not allowed to give advice about how to proceed with regard to any matter. By giving such advice, the Judge would have already made a judgment as to how one party should proceed and would have partially decided the outcome.
Imagine how you would feel if you found out that the opposing side had been in to talk to the Judge without you being present. You would have no idea of what was said. You would have no chance to present your side. You would have no chance to show why they were wrong.
Since the Court cannot advise you, check with an attorney of your choice. If funds are a problem, check with the president of the local bar association, who can tell you where free services might be received. Call attorneys to check on the price for a short appointment for purposes of getting information and advice. You will find many who would be willing to talk with you for a relatively small fee.
The Judge and the Judge's staff also are not allowed to give advice about how to proceed with regard to any matter. By giving such advice, the Judge would have already made a judgment as to how one party should proceed and would have partially decided the outcome.
Suppose the Situation Were Reversed
Imagine how you would feel if you found out that the opposing side had been in to talk to the Judge without you being present. You would have no idea of what was said. You would have no chance to present your side. You would have no chance to show why they were wrong.
Check With an Expert Who Is Allowed to Answer Your Questions
Since the Court cannot advise you, check with an attorney of your choice. If funds are a problem, check with the president of the local bar association, who can tell you where free services might be received. Call attorneys to check on the price for a short appointment for purposes of getting information and advice. You will find many who would be willing to talk with you for a relatively small fee.