At Virga Law Firm, P.A., we understand how nerve-wrecking and overwhelming testifying in a family case can be. The subject matter is often emotional, since it can be about an individual’s child custody or a traumatizing domestic violence incident. However, how you act and answer questions in court could essentially make or break your case.
What You Should Do to Prepare & How You Should Act in Court
- Dress appropriately, as if you were going to a religious service or job interview.
- Prepare, review and organize your thoughts in order to establish the key points you are trying to clearly make.
- Since you are under oath, you must tell the truth and lying will only get you into more trouble. If you don’t know the answer to a question, just say, “I don’t know.”
- Be honest with your attorney since he/she is there to represent your best interests. Inform them about everything and let them determine what and how the court should hear those specific facts.
- While it’s acceptable to cry, avoid yelling at the opposing counsel and being hostile to the judge.
What You Should Not Do to Prepare & How You Should Not Act in Court
- Don’t lie or hide facts from the judge or your attorney. A lie or an omission of truth can significantly hurt your credibility.
- Don’t wear clothes that are too tight, display too much skin, exposes underwear or bra straps.
- Avoid rambling or bringing up irrelevant points.
- Don’t let your emotions get the best of you.
Contact our Panama City family lawyer to schedule your confidential consultation today.