In Georgia divorce proceedings, a calendar call represents a procedural event wherein cases scheduled for trial during a specific term of court are reviewed. This hearing serves primarily to ascertain the readiness of each case for trial. Attorneys representing each party typically appear before the judge to provide updates on the status of their case, including whether settlement negotiations are ongoing, if discovery is complete, and if all necessary pre-trial motions have been filed. For example, during the calendar call, a lawyer might inform the court that a settlement conference is scheduled for the following week, or that a motion to compel discovery responses is pending.
The significance of this hearing lies in its efficiency. It allows the court to manage its docket effectively by identifying cases that are genuinely ready for trial and those that may require additional time or intervention. This process helps to minimize delays and ensures that court resources are allocated appropriately. Historically, calendar calls were primarily physical events within the courtroom; however, advancements in technology have, in some jurisdictions, led to the implementation of virtual or telephonic calendar calls, streamlining the process further.