First, thank you for all you do by providing this website and forum. It is tough doing this all pro se and your advice has been invaluable.
Second, how do I best research caselaw for my hearing? Will a judge think I am rude or presumptuous if I note statutes or appellate caselaw when framing my arguments to the court? I want the judge to see I have a thoroughly reasoned argument, supported by statute and caselaw, without in any way alienating or angering her. I want her to view me favorably as respectful and well prepared.
You will not be considered rude or presumptuous if you cite statutes and case law in your arguments to the judge. This is commonplace for attorneys.
Check with your county’s courthouse to see if there is a law library open to the public. This would be a good place to start your research. Sometimes Google Scholar can help, but this is not as thorough as a law library would be.
Be sure whatever case law you use and cite in your arguments that you print a copy for the judge to hand up during the trial.
Also, you can get access to a library of legal forms and communicate with an attorney through our Rosen Online Service. This service only costs $199/month, and would be a great resource for you to handle your family law issues without spending thousands of dollars retaining an attorney.
Anna Ayscue
Attorney with Rosen Law Firm Cary • Chapel Hill • Durham • Raleigh • Wake Forest
Rosen Online | Unlimited confidential access to a North Carolina attorney for $199/mo - click here
The response posted above is based upon the limited factual information made available and is not intended as a full and complete response to the question. The only reliable manner to obtain complete and adequate legal advice is to consult with an attorney, fully explain your situation, and allow the attorney sufficient opportunity to research the applicable law and facts required to render an accurate opinion. The basic information provided above is intended as a public service only, a full discussion with an attorney should be undertaken before taking any action. The information posted on this forum is available for public viewing and is not intended to create an attorney client relationship with any individual. These answers are provided for informational purposes only, a person should consult with their own individual legal counsel before taking any action that could affect their legal rights or obligations.