Rule 2.11 - First AppearanceA. A First Appearance will be held within 30 days after service has been accomplished in divorces and legal separations in which there are minor children and in parenting petition cases. At First Appearance, a judge will give information about the court process and mediation. Before the parties leave First Appearance, the court will schedule mediation or the next court event.B. Attendance by both parents is required, and is expected at the same First Appearance, unless good cause exists to allow separate attendance. If a protective order pertaining to the parents is in effect, each parent shall attend a separate First Appearance. Attendance by attorneys is encouraged but optional.C. If parties or their counsel believe unique circumstances exist pertaining to their attendance at First Appearance, motions to be excused from attending First Appearance, in which the unique circumstances are specifically described, may be filed.N.H. R. Cir. Ct. Fam. Div. 2.11