What is an order to show cause hearing?

An Order to Show Cause is way to present to a judge the reasons why the court should order relief to a party. For example, a party can seek an order granting discovery, or dismissing all or part of an action by bringing an Order to Show Cause. read more

A show cause order is submitted to a judge, who reads the applicant's papers and decides the deadline for the responding party's submission of papers. The judge may order an opposing party to appear "forthwith" in urgent cases. read more

A show cause hearing is a court proceeding wherein one party seeks relief from another by presenting facts for or against a show cause order, according to Nolo. In divorce proceedings, a show cause hearing occurs when one party believes the other is not following court-ordered visitation, child support or parental rights. read more

In family court, a “show cause hearing” goes by many names, depending on the state and county where it takes place; it’s also called an “order to show cause,” a “motion for an order to show cause,” and a “rule to show cause” hearing. read more