Universal City Trials and Contested Hearings
In many family cases, certain subjects become points of contention for the parties involved, leading to prolonged proceedings before reaching an agreement. There are various reasons why a case may become contested, ranging from the argument that the proposed arrangement won’t benefit the other party to the necessity of modifying a court order.
No matter what situation you may be in, it is recommended that you have a legal team to help you get through these contested hearings, and Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. is the Universal City, CA, family law firm you can count on to make the process as stress-free as possible.
When we receive your case, we will formulate our legal strategy immediately, considering potential opposition throughout the proceedings. We’ll also ensure that you stay informed about the progression of Universal City trials and contested hearings, providing guidance when your input is necessary. Our team will do its best to resolve the case quickly and in all parties’ best interest.
Call Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. at (310) 807-6759 for your Free Consultation with a Universal City Trials and Contested Hearings lawyer.
Understanding Contested Hearings in California
Contested hearings, also known as evidentiary hearings, are court proceedings during which both parties present evidence and argue against the opposing party’s evidence to persuade the court to rule in their favor. These hearings can occur at any point in a case, and the judge will decide on critical issues that are often disputed and require supporting evidence.
It’s crucial to note that contested hearings are frequently confused with trials, as the terms are often used interchangeably. However, in some instances, trials are the proceedings after the case. In custody disputes, trials occur amid the hearings, with contested hearings occurring towards the end.
Legal Process of Contested Hearings
Before a contested hearing can begin, the court must receive testimony and evidence proving that there is a concern that the party cannot agree on or has reason to question the ruling. Parties may also bring in witnesses to support their arguments, which may then be cross-examined by the other party and vice versa. The judge may also ask questions during this time, as the hearing usually lasts for only a day before a verdict is given.
It is important to remember that even if a party requests an evidentiary hearing, the court can still deny it under specific conditions. For example, if the case has been ongoing for years, the court may argue that they have already seen all the evidence that both parties can present, which is enough to decide. Appeals can also be made if the court makes a mistake during the hearing, but it can be a lengthy battle. Our lawyers are equipped to handle any Universal City trials and contested hearings that may arise during your case, striving to shorten the time needed to resolve the matter.
Decisions Made in Contested Hearings
Having contested hearings gives judges enough time to review all the evidence presented by both parties before deciding on the disputed case. They may already have a ruling at the end of the hearing or order a separate hearing to discuss the final judgment. It also allows parties to find standard terms that will enable them to settle any disputes during the case and time to fight for their stance in court.
Down below are some examples of decisions made during contested hearings:
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Joint custody arrangements
- Visitation rights for non-custody parents
- Out-of-state relocations and move-away petitions
- Court-ordered counseling
- Modifications or cancellation of custody arrangements
Our family lawyers are ready to help you prepare for these Universal City trials and contested hearings and fight for your desired outcome. We can also file appeals if needed, ensuring they are heard in court and receive a positive response.
Free Consultation Today
When your family’s legal case hits an impasse, you shouldn’t waste time trying to handle things on your own and find a solution to your case. With a trusted and experienced family law firm in Universal City, CA, you can work with a family lawyer who can help you navigate through complex contested hearings and fight for the outcome that works well with your interests and is also amenable to all parties.
At Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C., you can trust our lawyers to assess your situation and ensure that all parties know your interests and preferred outcome during the hearings.
Call Benefield Law - Family Law Trial Advocates P.C. at (310) 807-6759 for your Free Consultation with a Universal City Trials and Contested Hearings lawyer.