When You Go to Court
Not having enough information can make it difficult to make important decisions. In the context of a criminal matter, it can also result in limiting your rights. When you must make an appearance in court, the process may be confusing enough without having to worry about knowing where to go, where to park, what to wear and what to bring.
At The Law Office of Kerstin Walker Sutton, PLLC, we want you to be prepared for your next court appearance. For preliminary information regarding going to court, please examine the material below. For more specific guidance regarding your particular case, contact us today. We have worked in the court system and can help you know what to expect from the process.
Where Do I Go?
You should go to the courtroom where your case is scheduled and stay there until your attorney arrives.
In Durham
- Traffic Court is on the 2nd floor in Courtroom #6.
- District Criminal Court is on the 4th floor in Courtroom #1 or Courtroom #4.
- Domestic Violence Court is on the 4th floor in Courtroom #2.
- Superior Criminal Court is on the 5th floor in Courtroom #1.
In Hillsborough
- District Court is in the big courtroom on the 1st floor if you enter through the front door of the courthouse.
- Superior Court is on the ground floor.
Note: During construction of the new Hillsborough Courthouse facility, parking is limited. The new parking deck is open across from the courthouse on Churton Street. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to park and walk to the courthouse as needed.
In Chapel Hill
- District Court is on the left side of the Post Office building as you enter from Franklin Street.
When Should I Get to Court?
Plan on being in the courtroom 15 to 30 minutes before the calendar is called. Your attorney may not be there when you arrive. Please wait patiently and Ms. Sutton will call out your name when she gets to the courtroom.
How Long Is the Process?
We may or may not be able to resolve your case on your scheduled court date. There may be hundreds of other people scheduled on the same day. We do our best to get your case heard as quickly as possible, but you should plan on being in court most of the morning. Depending on the complexity of your case, it may take all day, or even several court dates to fully dispose of your matter.
Who Do I Talk To?
You do not need to speak with the DA or his staff or anyone else before your attorney arrives. If an Assistant DA calls your name on the calendar before your attorney gets there, ask them to hold your case open and tell them you are waiting for your attorney.
What Should I Wear?
You should dress as if you are going to a job interview or church. Some judges are more likely to give consideration to defendants who are dressed appropriately for court.
What Should I Bring?
Bring with you any documents or evidence you think might help your case and any helpful witnesses who were present at the time of the alleged offense or who can support your version of events.
For more specific guidance regarding your particular case, contact The Law Office of Kerstin Walker Sutton, PLLC today and schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer by phone. Call 877-562-3881.
