When divorce cases go to court, it is possible that family divorce attorneys might ask their clients to testify during the hearing.
The purpose of this is so the court can hear firsthand the spouse’s evidence supporting the claims he or she and their family divorce lawyers have made upon seeking a specific outcome to the divorce.
Tips on Testifying in Divorce Court
It is common for people to feel nervous about giving testimony during a divorce case but there is no need to be.
Following these useful tips, any spouse who is asked to testify by their family divorce attorney can prepare to do so calmly and confidently while providing important insight into the case.
- Be On Time to The Court - The best way to have a stress-free day, even when testifying in front of family divorce lawyers and the court, is to get a good night’s sleep the night before and show up on time or even a few minutes early. Everyone involved will appreciate that.
- Dress Comfortably and Appropriately - Dress conservatively for court, in well-fitting clothing and shoes to avoid the discomfort that can distract from the job at hand.
- Listen Carefully and Understand The Question - Before saying anything, listen very carefully to the questions being asked and be sure to understand them. Ask family divorce lawyers to repeat questions if necessary, or to rephrase to provide clarity.
- Answer Only the Question That Is Asked - Avoid adding extra, unnecessary, and unrelated information. Answers should be short and direct, answering only the specific question that is asked to the best of one's ability.
- Avoid Guessing or Arguing - Guessing is not actual evidence and arguing with divorce attorneys or the judge is definitely frowned upon. Refer again to Point 4.
- Avoid Answering With Absolutes - Absolutes like always, never, all, and every should be avoided unless this is the truth in the literal sense. Absolutes reduce the credibility of the answer unless they are 100% true all of the time.
- Always Tell The Truth - Sometimes the truth can hurt, but saying only what is true is important to the divorce case. Divorce attorneys advise to avoid making things up, sugar-coating, or otherwise bending the truth when asked a question, answering only with what is known to be the truth regardless of whether it might be a little uncomfortable. Remember that witnesses providing testimony must take the oath to tell the truth, even in divorce court!
Testifying for family divorce lawyers can be stressful, but it plays an important role in reaching a more favorable outcome.
Keeping these tips in mind, any spouse or family member testifying in divorce court can hopefully remain calm and do a great job telling their side of the story to help the judge get a better understanding of a couple’s situation.