A friend heard the judge say 10:30, but apparently it was misheard, and the judge was seated at 10:00 and gone by 10:30 when we showed up. The clerk said to file a motion--what kind? (for a new trial, or to set aside, what motion is appropriate?) The judgement was for a car accident for approximately $10,000 in repairs. Help!

Ok, first sorry but on a 10,000 law suit you were not at the court a hour or 1/2 a hour early, but expected to walk into the court at the exact time.

Also where was the paper work notice of the hearing.

You will have to appeal the judgement if the court will allow you to for just being late. Time to hire an attorney