In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependency and/or severance case.
Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.
What is the order in which the testimony and evidence is presented to the Court?
The order of the proceeding in the hearing is as follows:
- Testimony of state witnesses;
- Testimony of defense witnesses;
- Testimony of state rebuttal witnesses, if any;
- Surrebuttal testimony by defense witnesses, if needed.
Also, the court will allow the defendant a chance to ask any questions of any witnesses regarding what they have presented in their testimony. During this opportunity, however, the defendant will not be allowed to argue with or contradict the witness, or otherwise make any affirmative statements about his or her case. The defendant will be given a chance to make such statements only during the time set aside for him or her to do so.
Resources
Video - Going to Court
Video - Preparing for Court