Legal Definitions - appearance docket

An appearance docket is an official court record that tracks the initial formal actions taken by parties involved in a legal case. It specifically logs when individuals or their legal representatives formally "appear" in a case, either by filing specific documents (such as an answer to a complaint) or by physically attending a court hearing (like an arraignment). It serves as the court's official log confirming who has formally entered or responded to a legal proceeding.

Here are some examples to illustrate this concept:

• Civil Lawsuit Response: Imagine a small business, "Local Bakery LLC," is sued by a customer claiming food poisoning. When Local Bakery LLC's attorney files a formal "Answer" to the customer's complaint with the court, this filing is recorded on the appearance docket. This entry signifies that Local Bakery LLC has formally acknowledged the lawsuit and is now participating in the legal process, rather than defaulting.

• Criminal Arraignment: Consider a situation where an individual, Mr. Davies, is arrested and charged with a minor traffic offense. When Mr. Davies attends his first court hearing, known as an arraignment, and enters a plea (e.g., not guilty), his presence and plea are officially noted on the appearance docket. This entry confirms his formal participation in the criminal proceedings and that he has been properly informed of the charges.

• Family Law Petition: Suppose Ms. Chen files a petition with the court to establish paternity for her child. When the alleged father, Mr. Lee, receives the petition and subsequently files his formal "Response" or "Answer" with the court, this action is recorded on the appearance docket. This entry indicates that Mr. Lee has formally entered his participation in the paternity proceedings, acknowledging the petition and signaling his intent to respond to it.