Litigation

Collaborative Law Divorce

A "win at all cost" legal system pits lawyer against lawyer, husband against wife. Continuing conflict aggravates existing painful emotions. Legal costs soar. As the conflict escalates, children suffer. Confidential financial and personal matters become public record and open to scrutiny. Judges divide property and establish custodial provisions using standards that may not meet families' particular needs. Negotiations all too often take place in crowded courthouses under intense pressure. Proceedings may be prolonged. Most cases settle - but only after the damage has been done and substantial costs have been incurred.

Husbands and wives, assisted by trained attorneys, reach a settlement with minimal antagonism. A structured and controlled setting encourages trust and objectivity in the negotiations. Legal costs can be contained. Parties can protect children's feelings and interests. Since there are no public hearings, confidentiality is more easily maintained. Attorneys and spouses can craft more creative property and custodial arrangements. Negotiations occur in an environment and on a timetable agreed upon by the parties. Agreements can be reached more efficiently. Parties agree to settle at the outset, in a process conducive to helping them heal and move forward.

To learn more about collaborative law, please contact one of our members for a consultation.