What Are My Chances in Court? A Lawyer’s Honest Answer
Legal outcomes aren’t as predictable as most people hope. Whether you’re navigating a Nebraska custody dispute, a guardianship fight, probate litigation, or a civil lawsuit, it’s natural to want certainty. But the truth is, court results are shaped by many unique factors—judges, facts, witnesses, and strategy—that no lawyer can honestly guarantee a percentage. Instead of false certainty, a good attorney should give you a clear-eyed view of your case’s strengths, weaknesses, and the best path forward. At Zachary W. Anderson Law, my approach is built on candid assessments and tailored strategies that empower you to make informed decisions about your future.
Key Takeaways
No Honest Percentages: Reputable lawyers cannot and should not give you a “chance of winning” in percentages. Every case is unique.
Focus on Strategy, Not Odds: Strong legal representation means assessing your facts, anticipating weaknesses, and developing a tailored Nebraska-specific strategy—not guessing outcomes.
Your Actions Matter: Staying organized, honest, and careful about what you share publicly can significantly improve your position.
The Goal is Clarity: You may not get a magic number, but you will get the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
Why Your Case Isn’t a Coin Flip: The Limits of Legal Prediction
Clients often ask me:
“Is this a 50/50 case?”
“How many cases like mine have you won?”
“Realistically, what are my chances at trial?”
These are fair and logical questions. In medicine, doctors can rely on large-scale studies to predict outcomes. The law, however, is different. Even if I’ve handled dozens of similar Nebraska family or probate cases, your case is unique.
Every courtroom battle involves different judges with their own perspectives, opposing counsel with their own tactics, and witnesses whose credibility can change everything. In custody cases, one judge may prioritize stability, while another emphasizes parental bonding. In civil disputes, a single document or testimony can shift the balance.
That’s why legal outcomes cannot be predicted with percentages—they’re simply not numbers games.
What a Nebraska Lawyer Provides Instead of Percentages
When you ask, “What are my chances?” you deserve more than vague reassurance. Here’s what I provide instead of a number:
A Candid Assessment: I’ll give you a frank evaluation of your case’s strengths and weaknesses under Nebraska law.
Context from Experience: I’ll draw on my experience with similar fact patterns and outcomes, offering insight into how judges and opposing attorneys often approach cases.
A Goal-Oriented Strategy: Together, we’ll define what a “win” looks like for you and build a legal plan aimed at achieving it.
This may not give you a neat percentage, but it delivers something more valuable: preparation, honesty, and direction.
How You Can Help Strengthen Your Own Case
While your attorney shapes the legal strategy, your actions matter. The strongest cases come from attorney-client partnerships where both sides are proactive.
Be Honest: Share everything with your lawyer—even the parts you think hurt your case. Surprises are far worse in court than in my office.
Stay Organized: Keep documents, communications, and timelines in one place. A clear, chronological record is one of the most powerful tools we can present.
Avoid Public Missteps: During litigation, assume anything you post online will be seen by the other side. When in doubt, stay offline until your case is resolved.
By doing your part, you help me do mine more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a lawyer in Nebraska truly predict my chances in court?
No. Any lawyer who gives you a specific percentage is overpromising. Nebraska judges apply standards like “best interests of the child” (in custody cases) or “equitable distribution” (in divorce), both of which involve judicial discretion and case-by-case judgment.
How do judges decide Nebraska custody cases?
Under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 43-2923, custody decisions must reflect the child’s best interests. Factors include the child’s relationship with each parent, the ability of parents to cooperate, and the stability of each household.
Is probate litigation in Nebraska more predictable than family law?
Not necessarily. While statutes provide structure, disputes often turn on credibility, clarity of records, or how a judge interprets intent. That makes probate just as unpredictable as family law in many situations.
What’s the best way to improve my odds?
Preparation. Work with your lawyer to build strong evidence, anticipate weaknesses, and keep your goals in focus. Preparation—not percentages—is what drives outcomes.
Your Strongest Move Is Preparation, Not Prediction
Legal battles are high-stakes and deeply personal. What you need isn’t a guess about the future—it’s a trusted advisor who will tell you the truth, prepare you for every scenario, and fight for your goals.
📞 402-259-0059
📧 zach@zandersonlaw.com