What Is a Resolution Management Conference?
After the filing of a petition and a response in a family law case, the court will usually schedule a Resolution Management Conference. A Resolution Management Conference is typically a short hearing for the parties and their attorneys to discuss the final resolution and, if necessary, pre-trial management of the case. Generally, the Court sets the hearing to complete the following objectives:
- Identify the contested issues;
- Enter any agreements of the parties on the court record as a binding order;
- Determine whether the parties would benefit from alternative dispute resolution processes (such as mediation or a settlement conference);
- Determine services that may assist the parties and the court in evaluating the merits of the case. This could include drug testing, interviews, or other evaluations conducted by a neutral third-party;
- Set discovery and other pre-trial deadlines;
- Set a trial date.
If any contested issues remain unresolved after the conference, the case will be scheduled for trial. If you cannot appear on the date of your conference, you must notify the court as soon as possible to request a continuance. The court may enter a default against you if you fail to appear, and the court may dismiss the case entirely if neither party appears.
Simply because there is a Resolution Management Conference scheduled does not mean that your case is in a holding pattern. There is much work to do before the conference. Generally, each party must complete a proposed resolution statement, his or her mandatory disclosure statement, and the required parent education program. The Court also usually orders parties to meet and confer before the conference to resolve as many issues as possible.
At Phelps & Moore, our attorneys can help you prepare for and present your positions at your Resolution Management Conference. Call (602) 788-2089 to schedule a free 30-minute initial consultation today.
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The information and views contained in this posting are not legal advice, nor do they form an attorney-client relationship.