I. Any attorney appearing in a small claims action on behalf of a party shall file an appearance with the court and shall provide copies of that appearance to all opposing parties at least 7 days prior to the hearing date.
II. The court shall give notice of the requirement to file an appearance under paragraph I to all parties in small claims actions.
III. Any party which fails to receive timely notice under paragraph II may request a continuance, which the court shall ordinarily grant.