Tips on Giving In-Court Testimony in Your Divorce or Child Custody Case, Part Three

In the last two days, our website has showcased blogs providing valuable insights and tips for individuals preparing to testify in a divorce or family law case. While we acknowledge that these posts can’t cover every aspect of courtroom testimony, we believe the topics we’ve covered thus far are highly relevant and beneficial to those navigating such cases.

Words to Steer Clear of When Responding in Court

In the realm of courtroom testimony, certain words like “always,” “every,” and “never” can have significant consequences. These absolutes can leave little room for flexibility, making it challenging to maintain credibility if your testimony is contradicted by another witness. To present yourself effectively, it’s essential to be truthful while allowing for some degree of flexibility in your responses.

What to Bring (or Not Bring) to the Witness Stand

When called to testify, it’s crucial to adhere to your attorney’s guidance regarding what to bring with you. In short, only bring items that your attorney has specifically instructed you to bring. Bringing documents, notes, or other materials without prior discussion can lead to their admission as formal evidence if the opposing counsel chooses to introduce them. Therefore, it’s best to limit what you bring and discuss it with your attorney in advance.

Responding to Document-Based Questions

When your attorney hands you a document and asks you to identify it, respond promptly if you are familiar with it. However, if the opposing attorney presents a document and asks for identification, examine the document carefully before responding. If it is unfamiliar or appears altered from a prior version, it’s advisable to testify negatively. This approach helps maintain your credibility and prevents you from providing inaccurate information.

Conducting Yourself While the Judge Delivers a Verdict

After both parties have presented their cases, the judge will render a verdict. Typically, the judge leaves the courtroom to review the information and make rulings. This interlude provides an opportunity to relax following a likely tense and stressful experience. It’s important to note that this period can vary in duration.

When the judge is ready to deliver the ruling, you, your attorney, the opposing party, and their attorney will return to the courtroom to hear the decision. During this reading, it is of utmost importance to remain composed, as it can be lengthy.

Observing Courtroom Etiquette

It’s essential to refrain from any disruptive behavior, including making comments or acting out of turn while the judge is speaking. Such behavior is not only considered inappropriate for adults but can also result in penalties, including potential incarceration if deemed serious enough by the judge. If you have questions or concerns, jot them down and discuss them with your attorney after the judge concludes the reading of the decision.

Impressing the Judge in Temporary Orders Hearings

In cases involving temporary orders hearings, remember that you may return to the judge’s courtroom for a trial at the conclusion of your family law case. With this in mind, it’s wise to leave a positive impression by showing respect for the court, its staff, and the other party involved in your case. This can go a long way in influencing the judge’s perception of you.

Conclusion

We’re grateful for the chance to provide insights on responding to questions in contested hearings or trials. If you have additional inquiries about court procedures or conduct, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC. We’re here to help with any divorce or family law-related concerns, and our family law attorneys offer free consultations. Just give us a call to begin.

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Other Articles you may be interested in:

1. Tips on giving in-court testimony in your divorce or child custody case
2. Tips on giving in-court testimony in your divorce or child custody case, Part Two
3. Getting Ready for a Hearing On Temporary Custody Orders
4. Child Custody Geographic Restrictions in Texas
5. Geographic Restrictions in Child Visitation Orders in Texas
6. The Dirty Trick of Moving Out of State with the Kids
7. Can a Parent remove My Child from the state of Texas or from the County or Country where I am living?
8. Children’s Passports and International Travel after Texas Divorce
9. Child Custody Basics for Texas Parents Revisited
10. Child Custody Basics in Texas

Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC | Houston, Texas Divorce Lawyers

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC routinely handles matters that affect children and families. If you have questions regarding Divorce, it’s important to speak with one of our Houston, TX Child Divorce Lawyers right away to protect your rights.

Our Divorce lawyers in Spring TX are skilled at listening to your goals during this trying process and developing a strategy to meet those goals. Contact the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC by calling (281) 810-9760 or submit your contact information in our online form.

Bryan Joseph Fagan( Attorney )

Bryan Fagan, a native of Atascocita, Texas, is a dedicated family law attorney inspired by John Grisham’s “The Pelican Brief.” He is the first lawyer in his family, which includes two adopted brothers. Bryan’s commitment to family is personal and professional; he cared for his grandmother with Alzheimer’s while completing his degree and attended the South Texas College of Law at night.

Married with three children, Bryan’s personal experiences enrich his understanding of family dynamics, which is central to his legal practice. He specializes in family law, offering innovative and efficient legal services. A certified member of the College of the State Bar of Texas, Bryan is part of an elite group of legal professionals committed to ongoing education and high-level expertise.

His legal practice covers divorce, custody disputes, property disputes, adoption, paternity, and mediation. Bryan is also experienced in drafting marital property agreements. He leads a team dedicated to complex family law cases and protecting families from false CPS allegations.

Based in Houston, Bryan is active in the Houston Family Law Sector of the Houston Bar Association and various family law groups in Texas. His deep understanding of family values and his professional dedication make him a compassionate advocate for families navigating Texas family law.