Expert Witnesses in Orlando Divorce Trials

An expert witness could prove helpful in an Orlando divorce trial. If you’re wondering whether to call upon one of these experts, you might be on the right track. Before you utilize this strategy, however, you should answer a few straightforward questions: What exactly are you trying to establish with this expert testimony? How might this testimony be received by the court? Is a trial even necessary in the first place? An experienced lawyer may be able to help you answer these questions.

What Is an Expert Witness in a Divorce Trial? 

An expert witness is someone who has extensive knowledge of a particular subject. This expert uses their knowledge to shed light on issues relevant to a trial and helps the court reach its final decisions. Usually, lawyers use expert witnesses to gain an advantage. However, these experts might also testify to the benefit of the entire courtroom, helping explain complex subjects so that everyone is on the same page.

In the context of a divorce trial, an expert witness testifies about matters relevant to the divorce. These might include child time sharing (custody), spousal support (alimony), property division, and child support.

What Kind of Expert Witness Do I Need? 

Various experts may be helpful depending on your unique goals and priorities. It all depends on what you are trying to prove, and experts may testify on numerous disputed subjects. For example, a medical expert might testify about how a parent’s health condition affects their ability to raise a child. A doctor or a psychologist might also testify about mental health disorders, substance abuse, and other concerns.

In a financial context, one side might call upon a tax planner, a financial advisor, or a business expert to resolve disputes over property division. For example, an accountant might testify about evidence of concealed assets – or the tax implications of divorce. There are many other types of experts to consider, and sometimes the most obscure fields can become relevant during divorce.

Are Expert Witnesses Really Necessary? 

Expert witnesses may not be necessary if you avoid a trial. Most spouses today agree that trials are expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. Alternative dispute resolution methods are generally preferable, including mediation or collaborative law. During these discussions, expert witnesses do not testify as they do during trials.

That being said, experts could still help streamline private discussions between spouses and their attorneys. Although these contributions would be less formal than in trials, they could still help both spouses reach fair resolutions that serve everyone’s best interests.

Can an Orlando Divorce Lawyer Help With Expert Testimony? 

An Orlando divorce lawyer can help with various aspects of your divorce, including witness testimony. Although various witnesses may prove beneficial, expert witnesses have the potential to completely change the trajectory of your trial. Before you embark on this strategy, however, you may need to discuss your unique goals and priorities during a consultation. Reach out to Steve Marsee, P.A. to discuss the next steps in more detail.

Sources: 

flcourts.gov/content/download/862614/file/2023-01%20AAML%20-%20Collaborative%20Law%20Outline.pdf

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0090/Sections/0090.702.html