Minnesota Initial Case Management Conferences
An initial case management conference, or ICMC, is the initial meeting with the judge for divorcing couples, especially those with children. By allowing the judge to have early intervention in the process, proper communication can be engaged between the parties so that a resolution can be reached in the case.
The judge also gets a feel for the case through an ICMC and much can be made easier through this process, streamlining the divorce process as much as possible.
There are a number of reasons as to why ICMC is used. Those reasons are:
- To establish the court’s control over the case’s progress
- For the court to have early intervention
- Offer alternative dispute resolution processes
- Establish discovery deadlines and limitations
- Discuss the progress of settlements and opportunities of settlements
- Schedule a date for future conferences if they are needed
This can make the divorce process much easier and make it less stressful on children when there are disagreements present between the two parents.
The Minnesota ICMC Process
Within 30 days of the initial court filing, the court schedules the ICMCs for each party. Each party will be sent a confidential data form. This form needs to be filled out and then returned to the court before the scheduled conference date. This hearing is mandatory, so both parties need to attend their scheduled hearing. If you are represented by an attorney, which you should be in any divorce case or legal proceeding, your attorney will need to be present. You do not need representation at the ICMC because all involved parties meet with the judge.
When meeting with the judge, the judge will discuss with you all of your options and what issues, as parents, is causing you to not reach an agreement. Once the reasons are determined, you will be asked to choose an Alternative Dispute Resolution, or ADR, which is how your case will continue through the court process with little or no delay.
Legal Representation In The ICMC Process
Although your attorney does not have to attend ICMCs, you will need to be adequately prepared. The judge and your attorneys will have to be prepared as well. When you have the proper representation during your divorce, reaching agreements can be easier when you know what the possible outcomes can be.
Twin Cities Divorce Lawyer & Attorney
If you need that representation, you may contact us at 1-888-575-LAWS or fill out the form on this website for your free initial consultation. We can help you through the entire divorce process, including preparing for your Minnesota initial case management conference with the judge.