The relationship between a divorce attorney and his or her client is intimate and could last for years. After an attorney begins working on a client’s case, he or she becomes that client’s biggest advocate during proceedings that have the potential to shape the next few years of the client’s life. Even though telling an attorney everything pertaining to a pre-divorce relationship may seem like common sense advice, a surprising number of people withhold vital information from their divorce attorneys..People may refrain from telling their attorneys things that seriously impact their cases out of embarrassment or anger. Unfortunately, failing to give your attorney critical information and lying to your divorce attorney could cost you.
Destroying Credibility
Throughout a divorce, the only person consistently on your side is your attorney. A qualified divorce attorney represents you, acting in your best interest to get you the settlement that you desire. While working on your behalf, your attorney trusts you to provide him or her with the information necessary to build your case. If you lie to your attorney, your credibility will be severely damaged or completely destroyed. A person who does not trust you is going to have a substantially harder time advocating for you and your children in court. Also, if the falsehood is discovered by the judge, it could affect how you are viewed by the court throughout the remainder of your case.
Placing an Attorney in a Difficult Position
Failing to give your attorney information about finances, past confrontations with your spouse, legal issues, finances, or lying about these things could place your attorney in a difficult position. Your attorney and his or her staff prepare for meetings with your spouse’s attorney or court hearings using the information you have provided. If you lie or omit crucial information, your attorney may walk into a situation for which he or she is completely unprepared. The attorney you hire wants to help you, but cannot if you are interfering with his or her ability to provide you with adequate representation.
Lies Can Come Back to Haunt You
Even if your lie is not initially discovered, it is possible that your former spouse or his or her attorney could find out about the dishonesty months after the divorce is settled. If your ex-spouse has concrete evidence supporting an accusation, you could find yourself back in court. At that point, your attorney will have a difficult time helping you avoid the repercussions. Penalties for receiving a settlement based on a lie include fines, being forced to pay your spouse additional money, and having to pay your former spouse’s legal fees.
Consulting an Attorney for Help
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult divorce, it is important to schedule a meeting with a qualified divorce attorney as soon as possible. During your initial consultation, be prepared to discuss your unique situation so that your potential attorney can provide you with the help you need. The aggressive attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum are dedicated to providing our clients with the representation they deserve. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located Atlanta metro area offices.
