Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA
Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area
For More Than 40 Years

Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area For More Than 40 Years

What is the discovery process for divorce?

On Behalf of | Jul 5, 2017 | Divorce |

Not long after a couple files for divorce, the discovery process begins. This is a process much like one that occurs in a trial, as both parties will be required to provide documents for the other to review. These documents must be factual, complete and will be the subject of just about anything related to the marriage, the divorce and even separate property.

The discovery process during a divorce is an important piece of the puzzle because it allows both sides to sift through everything the couple has. It makes it easier to come to an agreement for dividing property and assets if all of them are listed on financial disclosure forms and in other documents submitted during discovery.

An important thing to remember when getting divorced is to be as open and honest with your divorce attorney as possible. Your attorney won’t be able to do his or her absolute best for you unless he or she knows everything pertaining to your marriage, assets, property and even the separation period you endured prior to filing for divorce.

It is not uncommon for depositions to occur in a divorce case. These are sworn statements given by one or both parties involved in the divorce. The subject will answer questions presented to them by an attorney and all of the answers will be written down by a court reporter verbatim. The sole purpose of a deposition is to obtain facts, which is why they are used so often in divorce. If you are going to be deposed, a divorce attorney will be able to prepare you for it and explain to you how you should provide answers. Never offer information that is in addition to the honest answer. You only have to answer the questions truthfully, not provide commentary.

When the time comes to file for divorce, it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced family law attorney in Columbus who can answer all of your questions and ensure you are completing forms correctly.

Source: FindLaw, “Exchange of Documents and Information – “Discovery”,” accessed July 05, 2017