Before You Call or File: Gather the Basics First

Use this checklist before a clinic visit, official call, filing question, or help request.

Core basics to gather
- Full names for the adults involved
- Full names and birthdates for the children involved, if you have them handy
- A safe phone number and email address where someone can reach you back
- The county or court location involved, if known
- The case number or docket number, if there is one
- The next deadline, hearing date, or notice date

Court-process basics
- The most recent order, judgment, or notice you have
- Any papers you were told to bring or respond to
- A short timeline of what happened and when
- Names of any professionals already involved, such as a GAL, mediator, or caseworker

Safety basics
- What the immediate safety concern is
- Whether a protection order already exists
- Where the children are right now, if that matters to the request for help
- A safe way and time to contact you back

Housing and money basics
- Lease, eviction notice, or utility shutoff notice if that is part of the pressure
- Current rent amount or arrears amount if known
- Benefit letters, child-support notices, or agency letters that explain the problem

Child-support and family-support basics
- The current support order if you have it
- Review notices, payment summaries, or agency letters
- Any major change in work, childcare, school, or living arrangement that may matter

Best practice
- Put the papers in one folder
- Put the dates in one short list
- Write down three questions you need answered first
- Keep a short factual timeline instead of a long emotional narrative when you make the first call

This guide is public information only. It is not legal advice.