What is the act of officially presenting oneself to the court called?

The act of officially presenting oneself to the court is referred to as an "appearance." This term signifies that a party, whether a plaintiff, defendant, or attorney, is acknowledging the court's authority and is participating in the legal proceedings. An appearance can be made in person or through legal representation, and it is essential for the court to recognize the individual's involvement in the case. This formal acknowledgment is a critical step in the legal process, as it allows the court to proceed with the matters at hand, knowing that all interested parties are present or have been duly notified.

A declaration refers to a formal statement, often made under penalty of perjury, but does not involve showing up in court. Docketing pertains to the process of listing cases for hearing or trial on a court’s calendar and does not signify personal presence. Submission typically refers to the act of presenting a document or a motion to the court, but it does not equate to the act of formally appearing before the court itself.