Services:
Mediation
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where people resolve their differences out of court. The role of the mediator is to facilitate constructive communication aimed at resolving the issues. The mediator is not like a judge or an arbitrator who makes decision for the parties. Rather, the mediator assists, supports and guides the parties through direct negotiations.
Mediation usually occurs at the mediator's office and involves anywhere from one to ten or more mediation sessions, depending upon the complexity and number of the issues. Mediation is usually a relatively inexpensive way to negotiate since the parties share the hourly rate of the mediator and in most circumstances do not pay their lawyers to be present during mediation. Having lawyers present, however, is always an option where one or both parties feel the need for the lawyer's support and input during the mediation process.
Karen will assist you in finding a mutually beneficial solution to the issues facing you, such as support, custody, access and property division.
Arbitration
If mediation fails, or the parties have reached an impasse, they may choose arbitration to settle their matter. Arbitration is a process where parties choose a neutral arbitrator who makes decisions for them. The arbitrator is given virtually identical powers to those possessed by Judges. In effect, the arbitrator's decision (award) takes the place of a court order and may be enforced in the same manner as a court order.
The arbitrator is a person chosen by both parties and the parties choose how formal or informal the decision making process will be.
Karen is a trained Arbitrator who will help you and your counsel design an arbitration process suited to your needs. Arbitrations are scheduled according to the needs of the parties.
Collaborative Practice
Collaborative Practice is a reasonable approach to divorce based on three principles:
- A pledge not to go to court
- An honest exchange of information by both spouses
- A solution that takes into account the highest priorities of both spouses and their children.
Collaborative Practice is a non-adversarial approach: you and your lawyers will negotiate in good faith, and work together to achieve mutual settlement outside the courts. Collaborative Practice eases the emotional strains of a breakup, and protects the well-being of children.
The guiding principle of Collaborative Practice is respect. This respectful tone encourages you to show compassion, understanding, and cooperation.
A Collaborative team is the combination of professionals that you choose to work with to resolve your dispute. It can be you and your Collaborative lawyers. In addition to your Collaborative lawyers, you can choose to include a neutral financial professional, divorce coaches, a child specialist or other specialists you and your spouse believe would be helpful. All meetings are intended to produce an honest exchange of information and clear understanding about needs and expectations, especially concerning the well-being of children. Mutual problem-solving by all parties leads to the final divorce agreement.
Karen is a collaboratively trained lawyer who acts as a legal advisor and negotiation coach for one party in the collaborative process.
Link to Collaborative Websites:
Conventional Representation: Negotiation and Litigation
Our goal, if you retain us to be your advocate in a family law matter, will be to resolve your dispute through negotiations with the other side. Sometimes the other party is not interested in settling and the matter will have to be resolved in court. We have extensive experience in Litigation in the areas of:
- Custody
- Access
- Child Support
- Spousal Support
- Division of Family Property
When you need someone to advocate on your behalf, Karen and Susan are effective and efficient lawyers to have on your side.
Marriage and Cohabitation Agreements
Protecting your interests at the time of marriage or cohabitation is always a good idea. Karen and Susan will assist you in negotiating and preparing a contract that will address your needs and stand the test of time.