What happens at the hearing?

(1) You and the adverse party sit at different tables. 

(2) It is your turn to tell the story. If you have an attorney, they will ask you questions. If not, you will testify on your own. 

• Be specific about the abuse, stalking, sexual assault, or human trafficking incidents. 
• Testify to the incidents you discussed in the petition. 
• Say why you need a protection order. 

(3) The adverse party (or their attorney if they have one) can ask you questions. 

(4) You may call any witnesses. You (or your attorney) can ask the witness about the abuse, stalking, sexual assault, or human trafficking. The adverse party (or their attorney) can ask the witnesses questions. 

(5) It is the adverse party’s turn to tell their side of the story. He or she may testify. You (or your attorney) can ask questions. 

(6) The adverse party can call witnesses.  

(7) The judge will determine whether to issue a final protection order.