What to Expect at Trial in Cook County, Illinois

Whether your case is about divorce, child support, or any other family law issue, the legal process starts with attempts at an amicable resolution. In many cases, spouses can use divorce mediation or collaborative law to resolve their legal issues and reach a divorce settlement outside of court. However, when parties cannot negotiate and settle matters on their own, a trial may be necessary. Hiring an experienced Cook County family lawyer for specific guidance on negotiating an agreement or handling your trial is paramount to your family's future. Attorney Nicholas W. Richardson has practiced law in Illinois for more than 15 years, and he has helped many clients with family law issues.

If you end up in a family law trial in Cook County or one of the surrounding counties, knowing what to expect before you proceed is key to protecting your best interests now and in the future.

The Process of a Trial in Cook County, Illinois

The word trial brings to mind images of attorneys yelling at witnesses in front of a tense jury and a packed courtroom. In reality, Illinois family law trials are held in front of one judge. The goal of a trial is to persuade the judge to accept your position and issue a ruling that best advances your interests.

The process of a trial may differ slightly between individual judges, but most basics stay the same. The attorney representing the petitioner who filed the case will argue positions before the judge and present evidence. Evidence may include details about a couple's marriage, their property and finances, spousal support needs, and any other issues that may affect the outcome of the case.

Witnesses may also be called. As a party to the case, you may provide witness testimony. Depending on the type of case, additional witnesses may be called, such as extended family members, mental health professionals, other outside experts, or anyone else who may provide insights into the situation. For example, in a child custody case, your child's teacher or nanny may be called as a witness to testify about his/her perceptions.

After the petitioner's case is presented though evidence and witnesses, the opposing party does the same. The judge then reviews all the evidence and witness testimony before issuing a final judgment. This final order is the judge's decision about your case, and it may be issued the day of the trial or at some point after the both parties have made their concluding statements.

Contact a Rolling Meadows Family Law Trial Lawyer

The procedural and evidentiary rules of family law trials are complicated. In Cook County, family law trials can last a whole day, or even two, three, or more days. Dozens of specific rules must be followed during a trial, and you need a strong legal strategy in place well before stepping into the courtroom.

Hiring a lawyer with family law trial experience in Cook County is imperative to your family's future. Attorney Nicholas W. Richardson serves clients in Palatine, Barrington, Schaumburg, Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Cook County, and DuPage County. Contact The Law Office of Nicholas W. Richardson, P.C. today for honest, straightforward legal advice and skilled help with your family law case. We provide free consultations, and we will advise you on the best steps you can take to prepare for a trial or resolve divorce disputes outside of the courtroom.