Divorce and courtroom conduct: the importance of keeping your cool

Even under the best of circumstances, going through a divorce can be exceedingly difficult. In cases where you and a soon-to-be ex-spouse don’t get along and are at odds over issues related to child custody, spousal support and the division of assets; the divorce process is bound to be even more unpleasant and stressful. While it can be challenging to take emotions out of the equation, it’s important to keep your eyes on the prize and to plan and formulate a strategy for how to achieve your divorce goals.

Your personal idea of divorce success is likely to be heavily influenced and shaped by your specific circumstances and priorities. It’s important to discuss these types of issues with your attorney so that, together, you can formulate a plan for how to ultimately get what you want. In cases where you and your ex aren’t able to come to an agreement about the terms of a divorce settlement, it will be up to the courts and a divorce judge to decide.

For anyone who isn’t an attorney, being inside of a courtroom is likely to be a foreign and intimidating experience. In addition to having a clear idea of and being able to articulate what you want in a divorce, it’s also important to impress the court and judge and, in many cases, what you don’t say can speak volumes to a judge who may be attempting to gauge your character and the sincerity of your intentions.

Prior to a court date, it’s important to spend time prepping with your attorney. In addition to understanding general court room procedures and processes, an attorney can also provide advice about appropriate attire and conduct while in the courtroom. For example, it’s wise to be respectful of not only a judge, but also of an ex’s attorney while being questioned or answering questions. Likewise, it’s important to be self-aware and to maintain a poker face despite how annoyed or angry you may feel while an ex or opposing counsel is speaking.

Source: Huffington Post, “4 Tips To Help You Succeed In Divorce Court,” Joseph E. Cordell, April 11, 2016