Correct Behavior in Divorce Court

How a person handles themselves in divorce court plays a huge role in the final results of a divorce settlement. Like any other proceedings, it’s vital you watch what you say and how you act. It’s important to do this even when things aren’t going your way, such as dividing of property. The goal is to keep the upper hand during court proceedings, so things rule in your favor.

Before Going to Court

Before walking into divorce court, it’s important to talk over everything with your lawyer. This means going through every little detail. It means working out as many things as possible with the opposing lawyer beforehand, which is known as divorce mediation. The mediation is done in a courthouse and family law attorneys hear the settlement. It helps if property division and other details can be decided during this time, because it makes future proceedings go by faster.

“Any good mediator has references, credentials, etc. and should be more than willing to provide them. Furthermore, check out those on mediate.com, as Jim Melamud suggests, and, in addition, go to ACRNET.org for another comprehensive list of mediators.”

- Julie Denny, www.mediate.com

Judges Make the Decision

In the movies, it seems like the “good spouse” is the one who wins. This isn’t always the case, because judges have the right to make whatever decision they want. They go according to what they hear in the case and the decisions don’t always go the way you want. This is why it’s important to always carry yourself conservatively and properly in divorce court. This is especially true when the topic is on child custody visitation rights, because the judge’s decision is based upon the evidence presented by the lawyers. Judges also base decisions according to the laws of the state. However, many times judges make the final decision according to personal feelings, especially in regards to joint physical custody. This is why you need to go in with an open mind, because the outcome could go any way.

Courtroom Behavior

When entering divorce court, it’s important to dress accordingly. The suggested dress is professional attire, because this helps provide a good first impression. If you have to talk in court, make sure to follow acceptable courtroom behaviors, such as saying thank you and calling the judge “your honor”. Make sure to follow the lead of the attorney and don’t engage in any negative behaviors – never talk negatively about your spouse. Children should never be brought into the courtroom because it makes things worse and could affect the judge’s final decision.

Length of Time

Every case is going to follow a different time table. Sometimes they’re short, while other times it can last for months. The best way to keep proceedings from dragging out is by being very conscious of your actions. It’s best to be realistic about what happens in divorce court because it’s rarely predictable. This means following these rules:

• Follow your lawyer’s lead
• Dressing in professional attire
• Don’t participate in negative behavior
• Maintain composure
• Follow courtroom behaviors
• Remember the rules

It means following your attorney’s lead, who should be someone you trust.

"I am so happy that my case is over. I couldn't have found a better attorney to represent me in my case. I'm finally able to see my kids. Thank you for everything."

- E.M., www.ramosfamilylaw.com

Don’t Know What to Do?

It’s important to find a quality attorney when participating in court proceedings in divorce court. They will walk you through the process and will present the best case possible to the judge so he or she will decide accordingly.