Preparing your claim The burden is on you to prepare for your claim or counterclaim before trial and to bring any evidence, including witnesses, which will help you prove your case. For example, you should bring the original contract, a copy of the rental lease, damaged goods if not too cumbersome, repair bills, doctor bills, receipts, photographs of damaged property, and copies of ledgers. Remember, the Judge knows nothing about your case and must make the decision solely on the basis of the evidence presented at trial. If there are witnesses who have direct and personal knowledge of your case, and you expect them to testify for you, be sure they know the time and place of the trial. If they are reluctant to appear at trial, you can require them to appear with a subpoena. The Clerk will provide you with a blank subpoena for you to complete. Requests for subpoenas should be made at the earliest possible date. Having exhibits and witnesses are the sole responsibility of the parties.