Testifying in a Divorce Case
Testifying in a Divorce Case
Although some may panic when they realize that they may have to testify in front of a court during the course of their divorce proceedings, the stand is an important platform that should be treated with truth and impartiality. Instead of worrying about what to say and how to best create a favorable phrase, there are a few key tips to remember before going before the court in order to produce a truthful and direct testimony.
First and foremost, keeping emotions from getting the best of a testifier is perhaps one of the most important parts of speaking before a judge and attorneys. Divorce is stressful, full of disappointment and brokenhearted arguments, and the source of bitter ire for many, but the court of law does not hold this sort of distress in necessarily high esteem when compared to the simple facts of a divorce. Outbursts of anger are especially damaging to a case, as are over emotional displays.
In addition to staying calm and being respectful to the opposite litigator and to the court as a whole, it is important to speak simply and clearly. In the court, truth is based on the facts, not on the series of excuses or extenuating circumstances that a client might attempt to interject. If asked a question, plainly-spoken and direct answers are best. Do not attempt to craft a rhetorically pleasing response. Just answer the question.
Finally, it is important that a client on the stand does not attempt to build up their own credibility. A lawyer's job is to present the arguments before the court. Allow an attorney to generate the rhetoric necessary for the case. Again, a client should stay on-course by answering the question to the best of their ability, and admitting when they do not remember or do not know.
For more tips and information regarding testifying in front of a court, contact a divorce lawyer.
First and foremost, keeping emotions from getting the best of a testifier is perhaps one of the most important parts of speaking before a judge and attorneys. Divorce is stressful, full of disappointment and brokenhearted arguments, and the source of bitter ire for many, but the court of law does not hold this sort of distress in necessarily high esteem when compared to the simple facts of a divorce. Outbursts of anger are especially damaging to a case, as are over emotional displays.
In addition to staying calm and being respectful to the opposite litigator and to the court as a whole, it is important to speak simply and clearly. In the court, truth is based on the facts, not on the series of excuses or extenuating circumstances that a client might attempt to interject. If asked a question, plainly-spoken and direct answers are best. Do not attempt to craft a rhetorically pleasing response. Just answer the question.
Finally, it is important that a client on the stand does not attempt to build up their own credibility. A lawyer's job is to present the arguments before the court. Allow an attorney to generate the rhetoric necessary for the case. Again, a client should stay on-course by answering the question to the best of their ability, and admitting when they do not remember or do not know.
For more tips and information regarding testifying in front of a court, contact a divorce lawyer.
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