A large part of my work is in family law. Clients sometimes seek my help with happy family situations, like adoptions or pre-marital agreements and domestic partnership contracts; but more often, whether it involves separation, divorce, dissolution of a domestic partnership, custody, or support, my family law clients come to me during one of the most unhappy times of their life (lives). I’ve been divorced myself and I know how it feels. I feel most worthwhile when I can help my clients at a time when they most need help.
I represent women, men, parents (custodial or non custodial), step-parents and grandparents, the petitioning party or responding party. I do not represent groups. That is, I do not represent "MEN" or "WOMEN." I represent YOU, and I advocate for YOUR interests. And while I do not think in terms of groups, I'm aware that in the real world I sometimes need to represent my male clients and female clients differently to protect them against possible prejudices and pitfalls in the legal system.
My goal in family law cases is not to fan the flames but to keep tensions down. Because tensions are usually high, I strive to have my divorce and domestic partnership cases settle rather than take them to trial. I try to help them negotiate a settlement of their issues, sometimes through a mediator, and/or through my communications with the opposing attorney or between the parties themselves. Whether resolution is determined through a trial or private settlement negotiations, I see to it that the proper decree ("judgment of dissolution") is filed in court. With child support, the state requires use of a formula to determine how much should be paid; but in other areas, much can be agreed upon by the parties. Not that reaching an agreement is easy. People get divorced because they can’t agree, can’t cooperate with each other. Therefore, not surprisingly, in the divorce process sometimes push comes to shove. When that happens, I am known to be a zealous advocate for my clients.
In family law cases, I offer an initial consultation for $75.00. You come in and explain your situation to me, and I tell you about your options and your legal rights and responsibilities. I explain the big picture of your situation to you, as I see it, and what’s involved and what steps I think you will have to take, and what you should do to begin protecting yourself. I answer your questions and explain how you can retain me as your attorney. If you would like to come in a see me, call my assistant, Jon, at (503) 656-4154, and he can help you schedule an appointment.
