When you decide to file for divorce or you find yourself served with divorce papers, you have to start planning for the day that you enter the courtroom. While it may go relatively smoothly when you have little-to-no conflict or tension between each other, it’s another story entirely when it comes to high-conflict cases.
Don’t worry. If you’re in this type of situation, you’ll have a divorce attorney to guide you through the appropriate actions and behaviors. Still, it’s up to you to implement them. To do it effectively, you’ll need to know what you can expect from the judge. To help, we’ve put together this courtroom checklist. Make sure you don’t leave any of these at the door.
1. Attitude
When talking to the judge, bring your best attitude. Keep strong, clear eye contact and answer in “yes, sir” and “no, sir” or “yes, ma’am” and “no ma’am.” Treat it professionally. If it helps, pretend it’s a job interview instead of the end of your marriage.
2. Attire
The courtroom is a place that demands respect. You should show this respect in order to put your best foot forward with the judge. When issues such as child custody are at stake, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. Whatever your best shirt and pants are, wear them!
3. Attention
Make sure that you follow along with the proceedings. Don’t allow yourself to get burned out by the legalese and the formalities. Understand how the chips fall and what your role is after the divorce forms are final. Judges want to know that you are going to be a present father and/or a responsible adult. Don’t disappoint them.
In Summary
The divorce court judge holds the fate of your case in his hands. Work hard to put your best foot forward and make sure that you bring your best attitude, wear your best attire, and pay attention to what he has to say. It’s a judge’s job to rule equitably, especially when kids are involved. Make sure that you don’t hurt your case because of behavior.