Getting a divorce can be a nightmare without adequate support, both relationally and legally. When you are creating your support team, make sure you include an experienced divorce attorney Tampa to guide you through these steps.
Petition and Discovery
When initiating a divorce, one spouse must file a petition, which needs to be followed with a response from the other spouse. After that, attorneys will collect any documents that provide information on the couple’s assets, liabilities, and anything else that could help the couple reach an agreement. Legal counsel will gather this information through subpoenas and depositions, and both spouses must cooperate with proceedings. If either spouse is hiding assets, this could be detrimental that person. Judges do not take kindly to individuals who have been caught in a lie, so be forthcoming with any accounts or funds that your partner might not know about.
Settlement
Attorneys will work with their clients to attempt a settlement that doesn’t involve the court. In some instances, the divorce is uncontested, meaning that both spouses agree on the terms of the settlement. However, some instances will make avoiding court difficult, such as when a spouse doesn’t feel comfortable signing the proposed settlement. In this case, the divorce is contested. The settlement will include life-altering details, and some terms will be costly and timely to change in the future. Therefore, if you feel you aren’t receiving just treatment, letting a judge decide may be in your best interest. All of the boxes must be checked when ending a marriage. Developing a thorough and fair settlement can be timely, but getting the final details in writing is the key to success.
Trial
If you and your spouse proceed with a trial, you will likely present your case in front of a judge and possibly a jury. Beforehand, you and your spouse will gather your witnesses, who will help clarify issues about child custody, financial distribution and more. Both attorneys will cross-examine witnesses and present closing arguments. After that, the judge will make the final call and the divorce proceedings will end with a court-ordered resolution.
Each step of a divorce trial should be approached cautiously and judiciously. The stakes are particularly high, so do your homework before choosing an attorney so that you’ll have the best chance of getting what you need. With preparation and focus, you can ensure that your life and future remain intact following your marriage’s dissolution.