Status calls are how the court keeps your case moving. They're routine check-ins - not decisions on your divorce. Here's what you need to know.
A status hearing (also called a "status call" or "status date") is a brief court appearance where the judge asks: "Where are we with this case?" Attorneys report on discovery progress, settlement talks, and any issues that need attention.
Status hearings are largely administrative rather than adversarial. The judge is generally checking on progress rather than deciding the merits of your divorce, though the court can and often does enter orders at a status call - setting discovery deadlines, referring the case to mediation, or dismissing a case that is not moving. Most status calls are brief, but length varies by judge and courtroom.
Cases are called in order. You may wait 30-90 minutes for your case.
Attorneys tell the judge case status: discovery, settlement, trial readiness.
Judge may set deadlines, refer to mediation, or schedule next steps.
The court sets the next status date, with the interval depending on the judge and what the case needs. The cycle repeats until the case settles or is set for trial.
In most cases your attorney appears at routine status calls without you, because these are progress updates between counsel and the court. Whether you need to appear depends on your judge's standing order and what is scheduled that day, so confirm with your attorney before missing work.
Exception: Some judges require parties present for case management conferences.
Yes - if you are self-represented, you should appear at every status date. If you do not appear, the court may proceed without you, enter orders in your absence, or dismiss your case for want of prosecution.
Arrive early and check in with the clerk.
| Type | Purpose | Duration | Your Attendance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status Hearing | Case progress check-in | 2-5 minutes | Usually not required |
| Motion Hearing | Decision on specific request | 15-60 minutes | Often required |
| Case Management | Set discovery/trial schedule | 15-30 minutes | Often required |
| Prove-Up | Finalize uncontested divorce | 10-15 minutes | Required (petitioner) |
| Trial | Judge decides contested issues | Hours to days | Required |
Our attorneys appear at scheduled court dates on behalf of our clients and report back after each status call. Results and case timelines depend on the facts of each case.