Legal
services
Every family is unique. So resolving your family’s legal issues requires a tailored approach.
I take the time to get to know you, understand your concerns and priorities, and appreciate all the nuances of your family dynamic – especially when children are involved. Then we work together on practical solutions to resolve your current challenges and help you move on to the next chapter of your life.
Separation
& Divorce
I help you define what you’re seeking in a separation or divorce settlement, then I negotiate terms with the other party’s lawyer to arrive at an agreement that best meets your goals while resolving the situation quickly and cost-effectively. Going to court is never the preferred route – but when it becomes the only option, I have a practical process, grounded in years of experience, to guide you as smoothy as possible through the system to a positive resolution.
Mediation &
Arbitration
As an alternative to a lengthy and costly court proceeding, many family law matters can be resolved through mediation. As an accredited mediator, I can help you and your family settle a dispute before it escalates into a long and painful legal battle. Often parenting issues can be sorted out through mediation, leaving the court to focus on financial arrangements or other points that may be more challenging to resolve.
Sometimes mediation can get the parties closer to an agreement, but you still need someone to settle your outstanding differences. In such cases, I can act as an arbitrator and, with both parties’ consent, make the final decisions. Having seen your family dynamic and heard your diverse points of view as a mediator, I’m able to guide disputes quickly and effectively through the arbitration process so everyone can move on.
Parenting
Coordination
Once a separating couple has a plan in place regarding their children, sometimes they need to fine-tune the arrangements when differences arise or there’s an unexpected change in the family’s circumstances. In such cases I can act as what is called a parenting coordinator, revising the agreed plan through mediation and, if necessary, arbitration. Again, this can be a speedy and economical solution to a parenting dispute.
Child
Protection
Sometimes a family situation becomes overwhelming for one or both parents, and government child protection authorities are involved. I have a thorough understanding of the child protection system and can advise you on how to maximize your chances of keeping the children with you or having them returned to your care as soon as possible.