5 Mistakes to Avoid Making When You Go to Divorce Court

 Posted on November 21, 2018 in Family Law

There are many ways you can go about getting divorced. There is divorce mediation, collaborative divorce, even a do-it-yourself divorce - but the most common process couples decide to go with when getting a divorce remains to be a litigated divorce.

With a litigated divorce, both spouses hire lawyers to give them legal advice and help them hash out issues. While many litigated divorces do not always use a judge decide such issues, you must always appear in court to have your divorce finalized.

Certain rules of etiquette should be followed in court. Try to avoid making these mistakes when you go to court during your divorce:

1. Not Coming Prepared

This can be one of the worst mistakes you can make when you are in divorce court. The judge will likely ask you questions concerning your case, and you will want to provide him or her with a responsive answer. If the judge asks you about your current income or debts, and you do not have the documentation on hand, you will not only irritate the judge, but you will also hurt your chances at a favorable outcome.

2. Not Presenting a Positive Image of Yourself

A courtroom is a formal place, and because of the nature of the issues being discussed during divorce proceedings, it is important that you provide the judge with a good impression of yourself. For women, dress pants or a skirt with a nice blouse, or a dress is appropriate. For men, dress pants and a button-down shirt with a tie or jacket can provide a good impression.

3. Being Disrespectful Toward the Judge

The last thing you want to do is make the judge angry as judges are the ones who will have final say over your divorce. Always listen when the judge is talking, never interrupt the judge when he or she is speaking and always refer to the judge as, “Your Honor,” when addressing him or her. Even if you do not agree with what he or she is saying, try to keep your attitude under control.

4. Appearing Angry or Hostile Toward Your Soon-to-be-Ex Spouse

Even though it can be tough to be amicable toward your spouse when you are in court, it is important that you do so. The judge will not take kindly to you if you are being rude or bitter toward your spouse or anyone else. The judge will be assessing your attitude you have about your spouse.

5. Not Hiring an Experienced DuPage County Divorce Attorney

Divorce is often a long, complicated and very emotional process. There are certain processes and formalities that you must follow when you go to divorce court - those of which a knowledgeable and reputable Hinsdale, IL divorce lawyer would know. At the Law Office of Martoccio & Martoccio, we know how much of a toll a divorce can take on you and your family. Our tenacious, yet compassionate divorce attorneys can help you throughout the process and get you the best outcome possible. Call our office today at 630-920-8855 to set up a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/9-mistakes-people-always-make-in-divorce-court_n_5a6b6071e4b01fbbefb15dca