The Preliminary Conference – Divorce Litigation

As an experienced Syracuse Divorce Lawyer for over 13 years, I know first hand all of the details involved with divorce litigation.

Typically, the first formal court appearance is the preliminary conference. At the preliminary conference, the court personnel or the judge (depending on the county), creates a scheduling order.
A scheduling order details numerous future court dates, detailing when various discovery is due and a trial date (typically 6 months or so from the preliminary conference).

Also, the scheduling order is a checklist of 5 (Five) items for determination:

1. Legal Grounds*
2. Child Custody/Visitation*
3. Child Support*
4. Spousal Maintenance*
5. Equitable Distribution*

*I have previously discussed these in more detail HERE.

If you do not understand your rights or all of the wrinkles involved with the items listed, it could do unfixable harm to your case. It is critical to be prepared at your preliminary conference so that your rights are protected.

New York Divorce Law is complicated so you should meet with an experienced divorce lawyer – even if you think your divorce will be easy or straightforward. The Underwood Law Firm is one of the few firms in the Syracuse area that offers free consultations on Divorce & Family Law so that everyone has an opportunity to speak with an experienced attorney about their case.

We have the experience to help guide you on your divorce. Our team will help you get the results you deserve.*

The Underwood Law Firm handles all aspects of family law including child custody, child support, separation, adoption and divorce cases in the following areas: Syracuse, Utica, Albany, Watertown, Oswego, Binghamton; Onondaga County and Madison County, including the towns, cities and villages of: Fayetteville, Manlius, DeWitt, Morrisville, Cicero, Liverpool, East Syracuse, Syracuse, Baldwinsville, Camillus, Clay, Fabius, Elbridge, Geddes, Jordan, Lafayette, Lysander, Marcellus, Minoa, North Syracuse, Otisco, Pompey, Salina, Skaneateles, Spafford, Tully, Van Buren, Eaton, Cazenovia, Canastota, Brewerton, Solvay, Central Square, Cato, Chittenango, Oneida and many other areas.

*Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.