Collaborative Family Law

Susan Kurtz
LAWYER ~ MEDIATOR ~ NOTARY PUBLIC

When a couple separates, two legal issues arise. First, decisions must be made about children, if there are any children. And secondly, a division of assets and debts must be made. These two issues can be resolved by way of a Separation Agreement. But the tricky part is how do two people who are separating from each other (often due to lack of communication) arrive at an agreement as to the terms of a Separation Agreement? That's where mediation and collaborative family law come in. Lawyers who practice CFL are mediators who are highly trained to assist the parties to come to mutually agreeable terms of a Separation Agreement. The alternative is a very expensive superior court lawsuit. People often complain about the high cost of legal fees to get a divorce or legal separation. A no court desk divorce is inexpensive once the parties have a Separation Agreement. One of the attractive features about Collaborative Family Law is the cost. You will save significant legal costs by choosing to resolve your legal issues through CFL rather than to go to court. In fact, CFL may cost as little as 10% of the usual legal costs associated with separation and divorce. CFL employs mediation techniques, but takes it one step further by ensuring both parties have sound legal counsel right at hand during the 4-way meetings. However, even more important than the cost in dollars is the emotional savings you will enjoy by avoiding harmful litigation. If you place any value at all on your time or your peace of mind, you may want to explore CFL. The adversarial system is set up to position parties against each, to determine right and wrong. Often in family disputes, who is right and who is wrong is of little consequence. Instead, the parties need to focus on how to peacefully resolve the legal issues that arise through a marriage breakdown. Susan Kurtz helps people to uncouple with love. Lawyer mediators assist the parties to illuminate the needs and desires behind each party's position so that the parties can gently move themselves off a position and toward a resolution. CFL is a type of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). See www.adrNelson.com or call (250) 354-1881 to make an appointment for an initial consultation with one of our lawyers in Nelson BC for $120 including tax. It is recommended that you bring your spouse to the initial meeting. CFL recognizes and promotes the health and well being of each family member going through a transition. A no court desk divorce is simple and inexpensive to obtain once you have a Separation Agreement. SusanKurtzLaw.com to learn more our services!