When Are Expert Witnesses Used in Divorce Litigation?

 Posted on January 31, 2025 in Divorce

When spouses cannot agree on key aspects of their divorce and the case is litigated in court, expert witnesses may be brought in to provide professional opinions about disputed matters. These experts offer valuable insight on issues such as property valuation, child custody, and financial analysis. If you are wondering whether an expert witness could benefit your case, our Illinois divorce attorneys can determine whether expert testimony may strengthen your case and help secure a fair outcome.

What Is an Expert Witness?

An expert witness is a professional with specialized knowledge in a particular field who provides an unbiased opinion in legal proceedings. Unlike fact witnesses, who testify about what they have personally observed, expert witnesses rely on education, training, and experience to analyze information and explain complex issues to the court. Their testimony can be crucial in divorce litigation, especially when financial assets or child custody arrangements are contested.

Types of Expert Witnesses in Divorce Cases 

Financial Experts

Dividing assets and debts in a divorce can be complicated, especially when high-value properties, investments, or business interests are involved. Financial experts help ensure that all marital assets are accurately valued and fairly divided. Common financial experts in divorce cases include forensic accountants, business valuation experts, and financial advisors. 

Child Custody Experts

When parents cannot agree on arrangements for parenting time and decision-making responsibilities, the court may rely on expert witnesses to assess what is in the child’s best interests. These experts often include child psychologists, who evaluate a child’s emotional well-being and recommend custody arrangements. They may also include parenting coordinators, whose job is to assess each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs and provide recommendations. In situations involving allegations of abuse or neglect, social workers may also be brought in to conduct home studies and interview family members to provide insight into living arrangements.

Real Estate and Property Appraisers

Marital homes, vacation properties, and investment properties must be accurately valued before they can be divided in a divorce. Real estate appraisers determine the fair market value of a home, while personal property appraisers evaluate high-value assets like jewelry, artwork, or collectibles. Their testimony helps ensure assets are fairly distributed.

Vocational Experts

If one spouse is unemployed or underemployed, a vocational expert can assess that spouse’s earning potential. These experts analyze work history, education, and job market conditions to determine whether a spouse can re-enter the workforce and how much income they could reasonably earn. This information is essential in spousal support and child support determinations.

Do Expert Witnesses Impact a Divorce Case?

Expert witnesses provide objective, professional opinions that help the court understand complex financial and personal matters. Their testimony can:

• Strengthen arguments in asset division disputes.

• Provide credible evidence in child custody cases.

• Prevent one spouse from hiding assets or underreporting income.

• Clarify technical issues that might otherwise be difficult to prove, especially regarding finances.

Our Wheaton divorce attorneys can determine whether expert testimony is necessary in your case and bring in the right professionals to help you fight for a favorable result.

Contact a Wheaton, IL Divorce Attorney

Expert witnesses can play a crucial role in divorce litigation. If you are concerned about getting a fair outcome in disputes over finances, child custody, and property division, a DuPage County, IL divorce attorney at Andrew Cores Family Law Group can help you understand your options. Call 630-871-1002 today to schedule a free consultation.