The Investigation Phase is the second step along the path to resolving your family law case. This phase—stated simply—consists of gathering information with the help of your experienced North Texas family law attorney.
Assets & Debts: Goals
- Locate all assets (including hidden assets)
- Determine fair values for each asset
- Determine all marital debts
- Identify separate property—and the necessary proof
Child-Related Matters: Goals
- Determine all evidence the other side intends to use in Court
- Learn the identity of the other side’s witnesses
- Gather evidence to support your arguments in Court
- Locate witnesses who will testify favorably for you in Court
The Investigation Phase is better known as the Discovery portion of the case. This is when written discovery is exchanged between the parties. The goal of this is to gather information that the other side has to better prepare for your day in court. Additionally, oral depositions can occur to obtain the testimony of the other side—and any witnesses—before going into Court. Finally, documents can be obtained from third persons through the issuance of subpoena’s. This is often a vital part of preparing because information from disinterested third-parties is often the most persuasive to a Court.
There are many rules relating to each form of Discovery. The rules of discovery are a constant source of disagreement between attorneys, and where you will find a lot of “gamesmanship” played. Gerald Tadlock is an experienced North Texas family law attorney who has extensive experience in cutting through these tactics and getting the information his clients need to properly prepare for their day in Court.
Once the Investigation Phase of the case has concluded, then it is time to evaluate the information obtained.
