In my previous article I introduced an exciting and much needed approach to divorce called Collaborative Divorce.  I discussed how the process of Collaborative divorce empowers the divorcing couple by allowing them to structure their own divorce with the assistance of trained professionals (Financial, Mental Health, and Attorneys) whose sole job is to settle the case without having to go to court.  I pointed out that this process is faster, cheaper and much less traumatic on the divorcing couple and their children by providing a ‘safe’ environment where everyone maintains respect, honesty and dignity. I also asked the rhetorical question as...

According to a survey which can be found on the web site of the National Center for Health Statistics, 43% of all marriages will end before 15 years.  (First Marriage Dissolution, Divorce, and Remarriage: United States. Advance Data No. 323. 19 pp. (PHS) 2001-1250.) What this means is that most people in this country are or will be living under a court order before they die or their children are grown. Looked at in this stark light, our current approach to divorce is shocking, unworkable and even pathological.  Looked at from any distance, we can see that families do not truly survive the adversarial arena, and that traditional court...

When two people marry, the feeling is one of pleasant thoughts and a lifetime of hope for the future….as it rightfully should be.   A simple marriage contract is signed by both parties without ever a real thought about the possibility of divorcing.  Statistically speaking, divorce occurs in 50% of first marriages and 60% of second marriages.1 What is even more unfortunate is that the emotional, financial, and legal process of divorce that the (once in love) couple can find themselves in, is anything but pleasant or hopeful.  “On its best day the family law system in this country is ‘inefficient’; on its average day it is ‘uncaring’; and on...