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Dealing With Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in AZ | Hildebrand Law, PC

Posted on : July 3, 2017, By: Chris Hildebrand

How to Deal With an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in Arizona

How to Deal With an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in Arizona

If you are going through a divorce and are dealing with an aggressive divorce lawyer, you will likely find yourself in a costly, contentious, and lengthy divorce. In the end, the only things an aggressive divorce lawyer accomplishes is creating a tremendous amount of distrust between the parties, a significant increase in anxiety and other negative psychological costs to the parties and their children, and a lot more attorney fees.

Understanding Why a Divorce Lawyer is Aggressive

Our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience representing clients in divorce cases. As a result, we have experienced divorce lawyers with a broad range of experience, legal knowledge, and personality styles. Although not a universal rule, our experience has shown that an aggressive attorney typically is very inexperienced or unknowledgeable about Arizona divorce law.

You can think of it this way. If you had two categories with the vertical axis representing either an inexperienced or a very experienced and knowledgeable attorney and on the horizontal axis representing a reasonable attorney or a very aggressive attorney, you would likely find the aggressive attorneys are those who are the least experienced or knowledgeable.

Learn About Dealing With an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in Arizona from Our Arizona Licensed Attorney Chris Hildebrand of Hildebrand Law, PC.

Your experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorneys in Arizona do not need to be aggressive to prevail in their cases. Their experience and knowledge tell them what the likely outcome of every issue will be because he or she has litigated the same issues in many other cases. He or she knows the law that applies to that matter, knows how to build a case to prevail on the issues, and knows what a judge is likely to do regarding the issues after the experienced divorce attorney presents his or her case.

The aggressive “junkyard dog” attorney will focus more on his or her bravado than the facts of the case or the law the court must follow when ruling on the case. The aggressive attorney who is not knowledgeable about the law effectively relies upon his or her aggression to distract from his or her lack of knowledge of the law.

How Do You Deal With an Aggressive Divorce Attorney in Arizona

Dealing with an aggressive divorce attorney in Arizona is easier than one might expect. We suggest you deal with an aggressive divorce lawyer in Arizona the same way you would with a child who is throwing a tantrum. Ignore them. Do what needs to be done. Create consequences.

Ignoring the Aggressive Divorce Attorney

You ignore the aggressive divorce attorney by minimizing the number of points of contact you have with him or her. You can do this best by putting everything in writing and not participate in lengthy telephone calls or in-person meetings. If you must have an in-person meeting, try to schedule it at your attorney’s office where you can be separated from the aggressive attorney by staying in a room nearby.

Do What Needs to Be Done

You should build your case as quickly as possible. The one thing most aggressive lawyers fail at is preparing their case for trial. Use this to your advantage by accumulating all the information and documentation you need for your case. The aggressive attorney can attempt to prolong the case by not disclosing relevant documentation you need to prepare your case for trial.

Instead of going back and forth with such an aggressive divorce attorney, simply have your attorney send a single letter directing the aggressive attorney to turn over the documents by a specified date. If the documents are not turned over, issues subpoenas directly to his or her client’s employer, investment companies, banks, credit card companies, etc. to obtain the documents.

Your attorney should close that letter with a warning that you will seek an award of all your attorney fees and costs incurred in issuing those subpoenas. Most judges appreciate this approach because it does not involve the court in a dispute as to what documents were or were not turned over.

Document your disclosure of all relevant documents that have been provided to the aggressive attorney. Our Firm uses a Bates numbering system, and all exhibits are cross-referenced to each Bates number and the corresponding Disclosure Statement that has been provided to the aggressive attorney. Doing so allows you or your attorney to immediately cite the court to the Bates number, the Disclosure Statement, and the date the document was disclosed.

Avoid prolonged negotiations with an aggressive divorce attorney in Arizona. If you need Temporary Orders in place for temporary child custody, child support, alimony, and payment of community debts, send a written offer that, if not agreeable, will result in your filing a motion on a date certain requesting the court schedule a hearing to issue those orders.

When that time comes, file the motion for the temporary orders hearing. It is important to submit it on the precise date you indicated you would be filing the motion.

Dealing With an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in the State of Arizona.

Dealing With an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in the State of Arizona.

If you submit a settlement offer, provide a date by which you will ask the court to schedule a divorce trial if the case is not settled by a date certain. Then do it.

Create Consequences for an Aggressive Divorce Lawyer in Arizona

The best way to throw an aggressive divorce attorney off of his or her game is to talk straight, create consequences (i.e., “if/then”) in your communications, and follow through on invoking the powers of the court to resolve the issues.

Some people spend a significant amount more in attorney fees attempting to avoid going to court against an aggressive attorney than they would have if they had just set the case for trial.

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Scottsdale Arizona Divorce Attorney.

Scottsdale Arizona Divorce Attorney.

Chris Hildebrand wrote this article to ensure everyone has access to information about family law in Arizona. Chris is a divorce and family law attorney at Hildebrand Law, PC. He has over 24 years of Arizona family law experience and has received multiple awards, including US News and World Report “Top Arizona Divorce Attorneys”, Phoenix Magazine “Top Divorce Law Firms”, and Arizona Foothills Magazine “Best of the Valley” award. He believes the policies and procedures he uses to get his clients through a divorce should all be guided by the principles of honesty, integrity, and, quite frankly, actually caring about what his clients are going through in a divorce or family law case. In short, his practice is defined by the success of his clients. He also manages all of the other attorneys at his firm to make sure the outcomes in their clients’ cases are successful as well.

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Hildebrand Law, PC

4.2

A Google User

A Google User

21:41 07 Nov 17

I just want to again thank the Firm for working with me all that it has. I could not have done anything without everyone's assistance. You, Chris and Stacey have been and continue to provide me with compassion and hard work towards my case. Also a very special thanks to Kip for taking my case in the beginning. Also continued support from him and his dedication to providing me with his expertise in this matter.

A Google User

A Google User

16:03 22 Nov 17

Dear Stacey and Kip, How can I ever thank you enough for helping me through the most difficult time in my life? I couldn't put into words my heartfelt gratefulness. You both were so compassionate and professional at every given moment throughout this process with me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You helped me to regain my freedom.

A Google User

A Google User

18:16 18 Sep 17

Chris is a smart and aggressive attorney for his clients. Chris always tries to reach a fair settlement of his cases. I’ve represented clients when Chris was the opposing counsel and while he is professional and amicable to work with, he does not back off on what he needs to do for his client

Bassam Ziadeh

Bassam Ziadeh

21:20 02 Apr 18

I retained Hildebrand Law after interview a number of firms in the valley. Working with Michael C. was incredibly easy and informative. My case progressed in such a organized and thought out way to ensure that my needs were met. Michael was incredibly proactive and was able to see far ahead into my case to steer clear of some roadblocks. I would not hesitate to recommend Michael Clancy, and Hildebrand Law in general, to anyone.

Larry Flint

Larry Flint

21:53 27 Feb 18

I have worked with Hildebrand law for about 8 years. They are always ready to serve, provide guidance and give you a few options. When they provide you options they also take the time to walk you through the pros and cons of each and give you a recommendation of what is best, but will listen to you and support whatever course you choose after making and educated choice. I’d recommend them to my closest friends and feel Chris Hildebrand is now a friend to me.

Sam Franchimone

Sam Franchimone

22:09 12 Sep 13

Despite the unfortunate situation I found myself in, Chris Hildebrand @ Hildebrand Law helped me maneuver every step with professionalism, expertise, and even a sensitivity that was an added bonus. Chris and his staff helped me even when I didn't know I needed the help. In other words. . . they made sure we did not leave anything undone. And in the rare instance we needed the expertise of another professional, Chris knew exactly who to recommend. Chris also knew, because of his experience, what to anticipate down the road of litigation. That meant we were better prepared to meet the challenges head on, which lead to a more equitable and fair outcome. I appreciated that Chris did his best to meet my every need in a timely fashion, even if I had a simple question that required only a phone call or e-mail or if we needed to talk face-to-face. I highly recommend Chris Hildebrand @ Hildebrand Law, PC.

Lindsay Donoian

Lindsay Donoian

06:53 27 Sep 14

I cannot express enough how thankful I am that I found Hildrebrand Law. Chris Hildebrand is an excellent attorney who has my best interests in mind and always encourages me to do the right thing regardless of what the opposing party is doing. Chris knows family law very well and relies on that knowledge to format options and solutions for each situation that may arise. He knows what the Court expects and what will and will not be tolerated. He has attempted to settle this case quickly and as inexpensively as possible from the start. His paralegal, Laura, is remarkable. She is organized, quick to respond, and compassionate. Chris is well prepared with a binder full of detailed and organized information and that is likely due to her thorough skills and expertise. While getting a divorce that was unexpected is a painful and difficult process, Chris and Laura treat my family and I like friends rather than another just "client." I am hopeful that I do not need to recommend divorce lawyers to anyone in the future but if I do, Hildebrand Law will be a recommendation I would give hands down.

Jim Caryl

Jim Caryl

22:53 26 Jul 18

I interviewed several firms and selected Hildebrand Law for my difficult military divorce as a direct result of their whole family concern and integrity. During the interview process the professionals at Hildebrand Law were as concerned for the well being of my children as I was and ensured that they presented several options along the way to ensure that we protected my children's needs as well as my financial situation. At each decision point they laid out a clear path, how it impacted the children, the financial situation. They even reminded me that my ultimate stated goal was the best interest of my children each time the other party got particularly challenging and my frustration was getting the better of me. The owner handled my case personally and was exceptionally well versed in the unique aspects of a divorce involving the military and associated benefits. Won't need them again (fingers crossed!!! :) ) but would totally recommend them to anyone!

sandi rigney

sandi rigney

17:19 28 Jun 18

We had a fairly complicated case in Family Court and Juvenile Court. Kip was an excellent attorney. He covered every base there was to cover and left no stone unturned. I would highly recommend him to anyone going through custody proceedings. Hildebrand Law is an excellent law firm and I am confident that Kip or any of their other attorneys would do an excellent job! Thanks Kip and Hildebrand Law!

PrinceAiden Johnson

PrinceAiden Johnson

17:15 13 Jun 18

The firm of Hildebrand Law is top notch. It's necessary to state again that Kent Millward is the epitome of excellence in a vast community of attorneys and will fight valiantly for you. We hired Kent and discovered a very good attorney with a good heart. For great family law representation and more this is the Law Firm for you. To Chris, Kent, Alison and all of Hildebrand Law,Thank you so much!

Richard Sipan

Richard Sipan

23:51 18 Oct 18

I first should comment on how I found this law firm. I am an attorney myself, though never licensed in Arizona. I moved to Arizona to rejoin my wife and son, who had moved out to Arizona ahead of me. Things soured. I don't know why, but they did.There was a particular issue for me with inherited property. I did some basic Internet research, and Hildebrand's name kept coming up as the author of scholarly articles on the issue concerning me. I asked that Hildebrand be assigned to my case. This was not possible, but his second in command, Mr. Micuda, took over, and Mr. Micuda knows his business.The initial scheduled 1 hour meeting ran for an hour and 45 minutes, and facts, law, and strategy were fully discussed. Throughout the case, everything was explained to me clearly, both verbally and in writing.Proceedings went forward without delay. Because I had selected one of the most prominent Domestic Relations firms in town, there was no serious opposition. This ended up being an essentially co-operative divorce between the two sides, the reasoning being to conserve assets rather than enrich lawyers.Through a series of 3 or 4 payments, I put up about $10,000 for fees and costs. I found the Hildebrand law firm's billings to be fair. They billed for work done; no padding. I am getting about 25% of what I paid in back, as a refund.The matter was done in about 6 months: divorce, agreed property settlement, agreed support provisions as to my son. My matters were handled by an attorney and paralegal team, and handled efficiently.Mine was not a "big" case in terms of its economic value to anyone, but I did not feel like a second or third class citizen; I was treated with the same respect, even though the dispute was over a condo, as opposed to, say, a Scottsdale mansion with land.This may sound strange, but i was actually somewhat sorry that the matter had to come to a conclusion. I felt that I had been treated like a friend, not just an anonymous customer. Being a practical man, I realize it's down to sending a Christmas or other seasonal card.As I said at the outset, I found this place by dint of my own research. I feel I am a lucky man that I did.

Niko RedMoon

Niko RedMoon

02:57 18 Jan 19

This is not only a great law firm that cares about their clients but also the results they get for their clients. Great people and attorneys, I highly recommend this firm!

Rick Cabral

Rick Cabral

23:23 22 Jan 19

Chris Hildebrand is one of the sharpest and effective attorneys that I have encountered in my 27 years of business. Doing business on the East Coast, as well as Southern California and Arizona has afforded me countless opportunities to work with legal minds from various parts of the country. Needless to say, Chris is by far one of the most honest, intelligent and street smart attorneys I have encountered. I have referred a number of people to Chris and everyone has been fully satisfied. 100% recommend him!

Brandi Slaybaugh

Brandi Slaybaugh

13:11 05 Apr 19

Compassionate and patient and helped so much. The best attorney I've ever dealt with. Nothing but good things to say about Chris. So grateful.

Shari Abbit

Shari Abbit

21:15 12 Apr 19

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Hildebrand Law. I have been working with Chris and the firm for about 6 years now, and I always feel like my concerns, issues and questions are addressed in a thorough and timely manner. They definitely have my best interests at heart. I recommend Chris whenever anyone asks me who I used as my divorce attorney. Great firm and great results!

Michelle Harrington

Michelle Harrington

20:54 24 Jul 19

I hired Michael Clancy just when I was about to give up on an existing post-decree case which I started with a different attorney over a year ago. Michael is knowledgeable, upfront and personable; he gave me the confidence to continue and settle my post decree case. I knew he was secure, capable and could handle my case and represent me well. He did everything he could to ensure a great outcome for the modification of my current court orders to help my son have a more stable mental, social and physical well-being, which to me is priceless! I would highly recommend him to anyone who wants to be in the best possible hands during one of the most stressful events that could happen to any parent that wants the best for their child/children. Thank you Michael for fighting for my son's safety!! Also, his paralegal, Alison, was awesome and very helpful!

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