The collaborative process enables our clients to proceed through the dissolution process with dignity, self-empowerment and retention of amicable and often friendly relationships with their children and ex-spouses. Resolution is achieved through negotiation, with the assistance of specialists, in a non-threatening environment, whereby the parties achieve the results that are based on their interests (for themselves and their family), and not based upon the dictates of the legal system or their respective attorney's notion of what is best for their client. Although the cost of reaching a final settlement is regarded by most parties as somewhat to very important in determining the legal process use, the following benefits derived from the collaborative process are viewed as more important than cost:
•A process which better focuses on the concerns most important to the client
•A less confrontational and less adversarial process
•A more respectful process
•A process whereby the clients exert more control over the outcome
•A less stressful process
•A process that engages professionals who will work more as a team to help clients solve problems
•A process that better provides sufficient time to address all concerns
•A process that gives the clients more control over the outcome (as the parties become more empowered with their own destiny as the results are based on the client's desires and needs)
•A better outcome
In addition, experience has shown that the collaborative process results in a stronger bond results between the parties and their children and that the atmosphere surrounding the parties following the dissolution of marriage is a healthy one whereby both parties are able to move forward with their lives without the acrimony and hatred toward the other party that often results in the litigation model.
As a Washington-based firm, we have many clients throughout the state, particularly in Seattle, the Puget Sound region, Bellevue, and Redmond, as well as nationally and internationally. In addition to family collaborative law, our attorneys engage in numerous specialties in different areas of practice, including general civil and trial practice, traditional family law (court based), personal injury, criminal law, general business law, and estate and probate. The breadth of experience allows our firm to bring various perspectives to your case where these legal issues are pertinent, thus ensuring that your interests are considered and respected. Our lawyers are educated and experienced, and when necessary to properly advance our client's interests, we maintain an aggressive posture. In addition, we provide personal, friendly, helpful service to each of our clients. In turn, our clients have typically shown their appreciation by referring our firm to friends and family members, a true sign that their legal needs have been met with friendliness, integrity, confidence and expertise.
