Waiting is the Hardest Part

What and What Not to Do While Awaiting Your Final Order

It has been months since you walked into your attorney’s office. You gave them everything they needed in your case. You had your temporary hearing, received your temporary order, then waited patiently for trial. After months of waiting your trial date arrived. You think it went well and are thankful for the conclusion of your case. Then, you talk with your attorney after court and are told your case is “under advisement” pending a final order. Now what? For starters:

1. As hard as it may be, please continue to exercise patience. Depending on the complexity of your case and issues involved, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months before the court issues its final order. In any event, you will not know the court’s ruling on any matters taken under advisement immediately after trial.
2. Continue following the most recent orders in your case. For example, if the temporary order is the most recent order, then continue to abide by all of its terms. If your case was a modification, then your final decree may be the most recent order. This is especially important to remember when you think something like, “Trial went great! I know the judge will order my revised parenting schedule so I’ll just see if my co-parent will allow me to implement it.” Please do not fall into the trap of handicapping the court’s ruling. The reality is that it is impossible for you to predict how the court will rule based on how your “think” trial went.
3. Your attorney will call you once the order is issued. Sure, it is okay to check in with them now and then, but they want the final order issued as much as you do. It is NOT a good idea to demand your attorney contact the court to ask for status updates. The judge is well aware they still need to issue their ruling in the case.
4. Last, but not least, please try not to talk about the trial, how you think it went, who won or lost, etc., with the other side. All this chatter is mere speculation and makes it much harder to communicate and work effectively with them after trial. This is especially true in cases where child custody and visitation are involved.

You have waited a long time, been patient, had your trial, and now you are ready to move on with your life. Just a little more patience and goodwill in following your most recent orders will go a long way in making your post-trial experience less stressful and chaotic as you await your final order. For further assistance and advice with this and other issues in your case, please contact the experienced team of family law experts at Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan PC, LLO to schedule your initial consultation.