What to Expect at a Family Docket Court Hearing in Alberta

If you are representing yourself in an Alberta family law matter, chances are very good that you will end up in Family Docket Court—an early case management process meant to get your matter moving in the right direction.

Family Docket is not the place to argue your case or present evidence. It’s not about getting a judge to make a decision on parenting time, support, or property. Instead, the focus is on identifying what the issues are, ensuring the right steps are being taken, and referring parties to the appropriate resolution path—like mediation, case conferences, or setting a hearing date.

This guide walks you through what Family Docket Court is, what to expect, and how to show up prepared if you’re representing yourself.

What is Family Docket Court?

Family Docket Court is usually your first court appearance before filing a family law application in Alberta. It’s required before you can schedule most other types of hearings, and it applies whether you're seeking parenting, support, property division, or other family-related relief.

The goal of Family Docket is to:

✔ Identify what your matter is about

✔ Determine what steps are needed next

✔ Make sure the case is appropriate for court (or if another option like mediation is better)

✔ Avoid unnecessary delays or repeated appearances

✔Obtain an Order for Disclosure

✔ Address any consents between the parties

What Happens at the Hearing?

1. Check-In

• Arrive early and check in with the clerk.

• Make sure you’re in the right courtroom (many are now virtual, so double check if you need a Webex link).

  
  

2. The Appearance

• Your file will be called (e.g., “Smith v. Jones”).

• Each party takes a turn summarizing the key issues—what they are seeking and whether the matter is ready to proceed.

• Justices don’t make final rulings here, but they may provide direction.

• The hearing usually lasts 5 to 15 minutes.

  
  

3. Possible Outcomes

• The Justice may direct the parties to:

  • Attend mediation

  • Schedule a Case Conference

  • File additional documents

  • Book a Chambers or Special Chambers hearing

  • Take steps toward resolution outside of court

    
    

• In some limited cases (like safety concerns), referrals may be made for urgent hearings.

  
  

What to Bring

Even though you’re not arguing the facts, you should come prepared:

• A clear summary of your issues (1 page is fine)

• Any relevant court documents you've already filed or received

• A notebook to write down the Justice’s directions

• A respectful and solution-focused mindset

  
  

Courtroom Etiquette

✔ Dress professionally

✔ Mute yourself if appearing virtually until it’s your turn

✔ Call the Justice “Ma'am” or “Sir”

✔ Speak calmly and respectfully

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Showing Up to Argue Your Case Family Docket is not the time to present evidence or ask the Justice for a final order.

2. Being Unclear About What You Want Know what you’re seeking long-term, so the judge can direct the next steps appropriately.

3. Missing Documents or Deadlines If you’ve been told to file certain forms ahead of Docket, make sure they’re filed and served in time.

After the Hearing

Make sure to follow the Justice’s directions exactly. This might mean scheduling a mediation, completing a Parenting After Separation course, or preparing your affidavit for the next court step.

Missing these steps can delay your case or result in a return to Docket unnecessarily.

Key Takeaway

Family Docket Court is about setting the stage for your family law matter to move forward efficiently. With a clear understanding of your goals and a willingness to follow the court’s process, you can navigate this step confidently—even without a lawyer.

Need Help? If you're unsure about your next step after Docket Court—or what to say when you're there—The SelfRep Lawyer can help. From strategy sessions to document coaching, we work with you to get clarity and move your matter forward.