Bethesda Divorce Litigation Attorney
Capable advocacy throughout the Bethesda, Maryland divorce process
When you hear the term contested divorce, it means the matter is being tried in court. Since court proceedings require extensive preparation, they are time-consuming and expensive. A party to divorce should never opt for court lightly, but if you must go, you need an experienced courtroom lawyer representing your interests. The Law Office of Stacy B. Talbott has extensive experience in courtroom actions from evidentiary hearings, motions and trials. Because of her dedication to your best interests, Ms. Talbott is never in a hurry to go to court, but once there, she has the skill to present your case in a confident and compelling manner.
Litigation of Bethesda, Maryland divorce proceedings
For most parties to divorce, and most attorneys, litigation is the last resort, coming only after alternative dispute resolution methods have been used to no avail. The financial and emotional costs of litigation are steep. Going to court can mean several trials and hearings, formal discovery such as depositions, subpoenas and document productions. Facts about your intimate life will become part of a public record. Additionally, the ultimate decision is made by a judge rather than you and your spouse. So, while some people doggedly pursue their day in court, convinced that the judge will side with them, their results are often less satisfying than first imagined. A judge generally makes a middle of the road ruling, ensuring that neither party is completely satisfied.
A contested divorce can be quite protracted. The court schedules several trials and hearings on separate points, starting with the immediate issues of alimony, child support and visitation. A trial on child custody will follow and then the divorce itself and the distribution of property. The court process can take a whole year from start to finish.
Necessary litigation in Bethesda, Maryland divorce actions
Still, litigation is the best alternative when you and your spouse fundamentally disagree on major issues that you cannot resolve. Litigation delivers a resolution when you and your spouse are at an impasse. Litigation is necessary if you are separated and need an immediate support, visitation or custody determination. Sometimes, merely the threat or initiation of litigation will provide an impetus to one side to concede a point of contention so that a settlement can be negotiated. When Ms. Talbott goes to court, she goes to win on whatever points are being argued, but in your best interest, she remains open to reasonable avenues of negotiated resolutions.
Contact a determined divorce litigation lawyer in Bethesda, Maryland
To discuss the issues surrounding litigation of your divorce, call The Law Office of Stacy B. Talbott at 301-637-8527 or contact her office online.