Ending a marriage is difficult, particularly if you have significant assets or your split is bitter. Under these circumstances, getting answers and agreements yourselves can be all but impossible. Fortunately, experts can provide critical insights and information on otherwise complicated or contentious issues.
What do experts do?
In the context of a divorce, experts are professionals that parties can hire to provide clarity, opinions and information on complex matters. These people have specialized knowledge or training in areas like business matters, finances or child psychology.
Because of these people’s backgrounds, the courts can give considerable weight to their testimony and recommendations.
For example, experts can play a valuable role in resolving issues related to the following:
- Incomes and earning potential
- Investments
- Business valuation
- Property appraisals
- Categorization of assets and liabilities
- Custody arrangements
Individuals involved in a divorce typically lack the objectivity and specialized knowledge experts can provide. Further, they may be better suited to present information to the courts in a way that makes it easier to understand.
Keep in mind that experts don’t make decisions in a divorce; they provide information courts can use to make decisions.
Who should I hire?
Generally, the best experts to work with are people with impressive backgrounds in their chosen field and those with experience presenting testimony in a divorce.
When it comes to the type of experts you hire, you might consider:
- Forensic psychologists
- Custody specialists
- Forensic accountants
- Real estate appraisers
- Business valuators
- Vocational experts
These parties can provide testimony related to matters of hidden assets, parenting plans and property categorization.
However, it is crucial to note that expert witnesses are not necessary in every case. Determining whether to hire them and who to hire is a decision you can make with your attorney. You can also discuss how you might challenge any experts your ex might call on.
