Pendente Lite hearing affects Wife's Virginia Divorce

Beware of an Attorney who does not prepare you for a Pendente Lite Hearing in a Divorce case ! Perhaps one of the greatest errors i observe in Divorce cases is the unprepared client or worse, an unprepared attorney. Pendente Lite Hearings are initial court hearings to temporarily resolve issues of spousal support, custody,,visitation, child support, 

 possession of the residence, payment of the mortgage and debts (after 7/1/11) restraining orders regarding no harassment of the parties and no wasting of assets and the issues of attorney fees and expert fees. It is very important that you the client be aware of exactly what will  happen at your pendente lite  hearing.
   The most likely thing  to happen is that you will be advised to try and settle these issues out in the hall or in a small conference room in the courthouse. The pressure to peacefully resolve unresolved issues is being applied by the Judge and in turn by your attorney and your husband's attorney. If You have met with your attorney prior to this hearing and spent time preparing for this eventuality then your attorney knows the parameters of settlement and can act accordingly. If you have not met with your attorney, then you will feel very pressured to arrive at an agreement and unsure of your decisions. Don't wait for your attorney to set this appointment. Do it as soon as you are noticed for a Pendente Lite Hearing.