A few procedural basics that apply whether or not you have an attorney:
- You’re expected to know and follow the same rules an attorney would — the Rules of Evidence, Texas Rules of Civil Procedure, and Texas Family Code.
- You generally can’t contact the judge directly (by phone, email, letter, or in person) without the other party present — formal filings with the court clerk are the exception.
- You must send the opposing party (or their attorney) a copy of everything you file with the court.
- You must give the other side notice of any court dates or orders you obtain, and file proof of that notice with the court.
- Court staff — the judge, clerk, bailiff, court reporter — and opposing counsel can’t give you legal advice.
If you need help finding an attorney, your local bar association’s lawyer referral service is a good starting point, along with our Volunteer Attorneys page.