If I do not have a lawyer in a divorce case, does my wife’s lawyer have to share information with me?
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If I do not have a lawyer in a divorce case, does my wife’s lawyer have to share information with me?
Asked on February 1, 2018 under Family Law, Virginia
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
Your wife's lawyer won't share information with you because that attorney is representing your wife. It would violate legal ethics and would be a conflict of interest if that attorney shared information with you. However, during the discovery phase of the case, your wife and her attorney will respond to your request for production of documents, answer interrogatories which are written questions answered under oath and respond to your request for admissions.
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
No, he does not have to share information with you, except that information that may be requested by the legal process of "discovery" (e.g. written questions called "interrogatories"; document production requests) and only to the extent you properly request this information of your wife in the course of the lawsuit, using the correct procedures and forms. Remember: her lawyer is HER lawyer: he represents her, and has no duties or obligations to you. If you feel at a disadvantage due to not having a lawyer, you need to hire one.
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