09/18/2026
Preparing for a custody, divorce, or post-judgment hearing? Schedule a consultation with Gary Edward Gardner, P.C. to organize your case and prepare effectively: 313-565-2868
Drawing on 25 years of courtroom litigation, Gary Gardner recommends:
Organize records by date and topic, including messages, emails, school and medical records, calendars, financial documents, court orders, and prior filings.
Create a clear timeline of important events. Note dates, what happened, who was involved, and where supporting evidence can be found.
Identify the disputed issues. Separate facts that are agreed upon from questions involving parenting time, decision-making, support, property, compliance with orders, or other requested changes.
Prepare a hearing summary showing the orders or results you are seeking and the evidence supporting each request.
Label exhibits consistently and keep copies in a format that is easy to review. Avoid submitting large volumes of unrelated material.
Prepare concise questions and be ready to explain how each issue affects the child, finances, or compliance with an existing order.
Review deadlines, hearing procedures, and required filings in advance. Bring your court documents and arrive prepared to focus on the issues the judge must decide.
Learn more: https://garyegardner.com/