What is a Late Case Evaluation?
An open court case can be a stressful
and costly process, but for those going through a divorce or domestic relations
matter in Georgia, a late case evaluation may provide a viable alternative to a
lengthy and expensive trial. If you're nearing the final stages of your case,
this method can offer valuable insight on your chances at trial and help you
settle your dispute more efficiently.
In some cases, the judge may recommend
this evaluation if they believe it could lead to a settlement, avoiding the
need for a trial. A late case evaluation occurs later in a case and may be
scheduled any time after the discovery process concludes. If the case is in
Fulton County, a late case evaluation is often set at or after the 120 Day
Status Conference.
The Role of the Evaluator
During a late case evaluation, a neutral
third-party evaluator listens to both sides and makes a non-binding
recommendation regarding settlement. The evaluator assesses the strengths and
weaknesses of each party's position and offers an honest opinion about what
might happen if the case proceeds to trial. Most late case evaluators are
experienced family law attorneys, but retired judges or sitting judges not
involved in the case may also serve in this role.
Benefits of Late Case Evaluation
Late case evaluations can be incredibly
helpful in guiding parties toward a resolution without the high costs and
emotional toll of a trial. The evaluator's perspective serves as a reality
check, helping both parties see the merits of their cases objectively. While
the evaluator cannot force a settlement, their evaluation provides crucial
insight that may encourage parties to work out a mutually agreeable resolution.
A late case evaluation offers a chance
to reassess your case with an experienced, neutral perspective before
committing to a costly trial. It's a strategic tool that can help you avoid
unnecessary stress and litigation, allowing you to resolve your divorce or
family law matter more efficiently.