This book is intended to walk you through most of the procedures used in courts hearing family law cases for almost any cause of action (such as custody or divorce) in any state in the United States. It shows you how to find the specific information for your state and cause of action and explains common issues. Because the book is intended for all states and each individual state has different laws, there may be differences depending on where you are. I have tried to point out common differences between states and how to ensure you know what is required in your state. This book covers such information as the structure of the court system; how to locate statutes, rules, and case law; the discovery process; various documents used in court; how to prepare for mediation and trial; common evidence issues; and much more. Also, this is a beginner's guide. There are some very in-depth issues that most cases will likely at least touch on at some point. These in-depth issues are sometimes called "weeds." This book does not go into the weeds, which tend to be issue specific, though I do provide coaching services that can walk you through those. This book also only covers procedures at the trial court level and only through the trial. Post trial and appeal issues are very in-depth and could be the subject of their own book.