Divorce is difficult. Everyone is offering you advice. But what is the best way for you to get through one of the worst times in your life?
The traditional adversarial approach to divorce is often costly and emotional draining. What if ending your marriage doesn't have to be that way? What if you could stay in control of the divorce process and your life? There are alternatives.
Mediation or collaboration may be the right option for you.
As a mediator, my goals are the same as yours: that you make informed decisions, conserve your financial resources and minimize emotional distress.
Mediation is a confidential, voluntary form of structured negotiation designed to help clients navigate through the divorce process. In mediation an impartial mediator works with both of you to find the best solutions for you and your family. Together we will reach a fair and equitable agreement, one that will be approved by the court. You make the decisions; not the attorneys or a judge.
A collaborative divorce uses a team-based approach. The team includes a lawyer for each person to serve as their advocate, and professionals such as a financial expert, psychologist or co- parenting specialist. The couple, their attorneys, and the other professionals work together through negotiations to resolve issues and create parenting plans and separation agreements.
Both methods are comprehensive and emphasize respect, privacy and communication.