Trial is the final evidentiary hearing where unresolved issues in a family law case are presented to a judge for decision. In Arizona family law, trial is a bench trial decided by a judge, not a jury. Both parties present testimony, exhibits, and argument and the judge decides.

Trial is not usually the goal in a case unless it cannot be settled. It is what happens when everything else has failed. Most Arizona family law cases resolve before trial through disclosure, negotiation, mediation, or settlement at the courthouse door. The cases that go to trial are the ones where the parties genuinely cannot reach agreement on issues the court must decide.

After trial the Minute Entry serves as the operative ruling. Both parties must follow the Minute Entry from the moment it is issued. If the parties are directed to prepare a formal decree the Minute Entry controls what the decree must say. Read every word of the Minute Entry immediately after trial.