Having your documents organized helps you win your case. You need to know what information you have, where you have it, and how you’re going to use it. Using exhibits effectively will show that you take the matter seriously and it will make it easier for the judge to take you seriously as well.
When you’re in court and your ex says something that’s different from their voicemail, texts messages, emails, or videoed behavior, you need to know where to find it in your notebook, folder, or briefcase, and share copies with your ex’s lawyer (or your ex), the judge, and the clerk. Keep a table of contents and clearly mark all the exhibits that you prepared so you will have no trouble finding anything in the heat of battle.
On the other hand, if you show up in court with your documents randomly stacked in a pile, you’ll waste the court’s time when you need to fumble around to find a document. The judge might decide you that don’t care enough about your own case to keep organized and don’t care much about the judge’s decision. Put the same consideration into the case that you expect from the judge.
Don’t just say how much you spend per month on expenses when the other side says a different amount, provide support. Submit your credit card statements or bank statements to prove your numbers. Wherever there’s a document that will prove what you’re saying is correct, enter it into evidence.
Keep a list of what is in evidence and what it says, so when its time to make an argument you have a list and the proper identifying name available for easy reference. Judges appreciate it when you take the time and effort to show documents in support of what you are saying so they can find in your favor with confidence.
Anything that will make it more likely you are telling the truth should be submitted into evidence. When you have documents and exhibits prepared, organized, copied, and indexed into a table of contents, then you’ll know you are prepared for trial. If you need legal representation, click the “Request Consultation” button for a free case evaluation.