Tips for Family Law Litigation Matters
Posted on May 26, 2016 4:37pm PDT
If you are going through a
divorce or fighting for
custody of your children, it can be difficult to know who is on your side. While
most courts now recognize the involvement of both parents as essential
in the raising of a child, a father may still face prejudice in the courtroom.
All parents should have an equal right to participate in the lives of
their children regardless of gender biases. Below are several tips to
help you secure a favorable outcome in any family legal matter.
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Get Organized: Legal proceedings related to
family law litigation can require an immense amount of documentation. Your attorney
will most likely tell you what information is needed. Creating a well-organized
file will help expedite the legal process and keep you from paying unnecessary
fees. It may be difficult to anticipate where complications will arise,
so organizing paperwork early will give you the most time to track down
missing or incomplete files.
Relevant documentation may include:
- General correspondences including emails, mail, and phone calls
- Court orders, pleadings, and motions
- Children’s medical reports
- Financial information such as banking statements
-
Ask questions: Do not let yourself be intimidated by legal proceedings. Yes, the legal
process can be complicated, but you are not expected to know everything.
While a good lawyer can advise you on the best course of action, they
will need to know when you do not understand what is going on. Similarly,
if you are asked a question and you do not know the answer, say so and
ask for clarification.
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Remain polite: The process of family law can be emotional and tempers may run high.
It is important to remain courteous and polite at all times. Remember
that everyone will be keeping an eye on the manner in which you conduct
yourself. The opposing counsel knows this is a sensitive time and may
try to use your emotions against you. Do not engage in arguments with
your spouse, the judge, or any legal representatives. You are being judged
on the content of your character and it is best to avoid appearing argumentative,
hostile, or violent.
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Be honest: While it is vital to present the best version of yourself in all matters
related to family litigation, it is important to remain honest. If you
are caught in a lie, the opposing party can and likely will use it as
evidence against the quality of your character. This can lead to legal
penalties and a less optimal outcome for you. For example, lying about
the amount of your total assets may incur penalties such as receiving
a smaller share of any settlement.
Compassionate Family Law Advocacy
If you are experiencing or anticipating a family-law dispute,
contact our Tampa divorce attorney and learn about the options available to you. At
Catherine W. Real, P.A., we can provide you with knowledgeable and passionate legal advocacy that
is backed by more than 35 years of experience.
Call us at (813) 251-6705 to request a
consultation and begin working towards a better future.