Robert Hanley rose. He was not rattled, at least not visibly. He adjusted his jacket and walked a controlled half-step forward.
“Your Honor, this is a straightforward matter. There is a valid and enforceable prenuptial agreement entered into by both parties before marriage, which clearly states that my client retains full ownership and control of all premarital and marital business assets. Furthermore, due to significant concerns regarding the respondent’s financial instability, lack of independent income, and inability to provide an environment consistent with the children’s needs, we are requesting full legal and physical custody, with appropriate visitation at the court’s discretion.”
Each sentence landed cleanly, precisely, as though it had been sanded and polished until all sympathy had been engineered out of it. His voice was steady. His logic was orderly. The facts he selected were the facts that served him.
The woman listened without interrupting.
When he finished, Judge Whitmore turned to her. “Ms. Carter,” he said, consulting the file, “do you have representation?”
“No, Your Honor.”
Hanley almost smiled.