As a mediating attorney, I concentrate on finding solutions for our clients. Rather than just arguing the competing legal perspectives, our mediations focus quickly on discovering the delicate fit of financial, legal and parenting agreements that leave everyone feeling fairly treated and prepared to move on. It is surprising to see what this change in emphasis can bring about. Often, it transforms the conversation from a hostile dispute to a sincere search for resolution. At its best, this kind of exploration can promote a feeling of collaboration and leave a reserve of goodwill to carry the family forward. Even in the most difficult cases where communication has broken down and couples come in armed with divergent legal opinions, I remain dedicated to - and experienced in - finding solutions that thread the needle to satisfy the most urgent needs without resorting to a court battle.
Russell Collins
The area of Family Law Mediation – our practice area – is one in which the emotional state of the participants can mean the difference between an unhappy ending and a collaborative resolution. Angry negotiations most often leave relationships damaged or destroyed. A cooperative search for solutions, however tense or difficult, can allow working relationships to survive. Whether that means raising children, maintaining long-standing friendships, or even going forward as business partners together. Helping clients maintain resilience and emotional stability during turbulent times is what therapists do, and Laura and I believe that both aspects – legal and psychological – are important to the successful navigation of the turbulent waters of family law disputes.
