def METHOD_NAME(self):
    column_names = [c.prop_name for c in self.columns]
    METHOD_NAME = DataTablesHeader(*self.columns)
    # by default, sort by name, otherwise we fall back to the case_name hidden column
    if "case_name" in column_names[1:]:
        METHOD_NAME.custom_sort = [[column_names[1:].index("case_name") + 1, 'asc']]
    elif "name" in column_names:
        METHOD_NAME.custom_sort = [[column_names.index("name"), 'asc']]
    else:
        METHOD_NAME.custom_sort = [[0, 'asc']]
    return METHOD_NAME