Court and Alternatives to Court

Processes

Negotiation is almost always the first step in resolving family law matters. We work closely with clients to advocate for their interests and reach fair agreements through open discussion with the other party’s lawyer. This process allows families to resolve disputes efficiently while minimizing conflict and stress. Our goal is to find solutions that are practical, equitable, and sustainable, helping you move forward with confidence. You want a negotiator who is respected for both their keen understanding of the law and for their integrity.  I am your negotiator.

Collaborative family law is a structured process designed for families who want to resolve disputes respectfully and outside of court. This process best allows for more amicable relationships thereafter. I am not promising that you and your former spouse will be best friends, but it should allow you to jointly participate in family birthdays, graduations and other celebrations together.  Each party works with their own lawyer, where we focus on “interests” rather than “positions”. We often involve family and/or financial professionals as neutrals in the process.. All participants commit to honest communication and problem-solving. Collaborative law emphasizes cooperation, creative solutions, and maintaining relationships, particularly when children are involved.

We guide clients through every stage, ensuring agreements are fair, practical, and tailored to their unique needs. Trained in 2008 and 2009, I have been enjoying my collaborative practice for 16 years. It is the most rewarding of all the processes. Not only do we serve food at the in-person sessions, but our clients are also most satisfied with their results in this amicable, result and compassion driven process. Since Covid most meetings takes place via zoom with our full team. Please ask me about this process when we first speak.

Mediation provides a neutral and supportive environment for resolving family law matters with the help of a trained mediator. Mediation often reduces conflict and allows families to reach mutually acceptable agreements without the stress of court proceedings.

Two bits of information :

Me as mediator – I am a trained mediator. I can act as mediator for your matter if you and your spouse agree. I only conduct mediations where each of you have your own lawyers- I am the neutral in this circumstance. I am the facilitator that helps you and your partner reach a mutually agreeable compromise. I do not take sides, nor do I give legal advice. I will explain the law where needed.

Me as your counsel in mediation – I am not the neutral. I am your advocate.  Where I am your lawyer (not your mediator)  and representing you in the mediation, I assist you in communicating effectively, identifying priorities, and exploring solutions that work for everyone involved. In this role. I provide guidance, clarity, and support so you feel confident in your decisions. I will be giving you legal advice.

Arbitration is a private, formal process where an impartial arbitrator makes binding decisions on unresolved family law matters. This process combines aspects of negotiation and court proceedings, offering finality without going to court. We help clients prepare thoroughly, present their case clearly, and navigate the arbitration process with confidence. Arbitration is often faster and less stressful than traditional court, while still providing a legally enforceable outcome.

We often end up in arbitration when mediation fails or fails to resolve all issues. It’s like court, but you pick your judge.

When a matter cannot be resolved through alternative processes, court may be necessary. We guide clients through every step, from filing documents to attending hearings, with careful preparation and support. Our goal is to make the court process as clear and manageable as possible, advocating effectively for your interests while maintaining professionalism and respect. Even in challenging circumstances, we provide guidance, reassurance, and a steady presence to help you achieve a fair outcome.

We make every effort to avoid court. It’s slow, costly and, of course, litigious. Sometimes, it cannot be avoided. Even when we end up in court, settlement is usually still possible. Very few matters ever reach trial.