An appearance is a filing or court action showing that a party or their attorney is participating in the case. In Arizona family law filing a response to the petition is typically how a party makes their initial appearance. An attorney files a notice of appearance to tell the court and the other side that they represent a party.

Once a party has appeared in the case they are entitled to notice of all proceedings. An attorney who has entered an appearance must formally withdraw before their client can be treated as self-represented.

Failing to appear at a scheduled hearing when properly noticed can have serious consequences. The court may proceed without you, enter a default, or take other action based on your absence. If you cannot appear at a scheduled hearing contact the court and opposing counsel in advance.