Publications

There are many things to consider when you’ve decided to get a divorce. Not only is it a major life decision, but it also causes some disruption to everyday life. Each state is different in terms of its divorce laws. While some states adhere to common law property when it comes to divorce, Virginia is…

Parents who choose to divorce have concluded that this is best for the family.  The marital relationship may be damaging not only to the parents but also to the children.  However, even in the best circumstances, divorce may be challenging for the children. While it is important to consider everyone’s mental health during a divorce,…

Walking through a divorce can trigger many issues when it comes to mental health. Divorce can be difficult, even when both parties agree to a dissolution of the marriage. Add in the recent uptick in mental health issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is no wonder why mental health professionals are becoming an…

Most clients come to a lawyer expecting to battle out their issue in court. While litigation is an option, it isn’t always the best way to find solutions. Many lawyers now offer other professional services that include mediation and collaborative law. Both of these options offer a different way to come to an agreement, and…

Walking through a divorce is a challenging process for everyone involved. Add children into the mix, and a divorce can become even harder. Using mediation services throughout the divorce process can help make the overall process easier for the whole family.  Creating a parenting plan is part of the mediation process in a divorce and…

While using a collaborative approach to dispute resolution has gained popularity in the past few years, the collaborative law process has been around for a few decades. The recent passage of the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (UCLA) in Virginia has many benefits for both lawyers and clients. The regulation of this type of alternative dispute…

The divorce process can be quite an overwhelming and trying time for anyone. Even if you and your spouse are on good terms, walking through a divorce can stir up many emotions and questions. Instead of taking the litigation route in the court system, many couples choose to work through their divorce through mediation services.…

  Mediation is an integral part of finding a solution that works for disagreeing parties. In the past, trying to schedule an in-person mediation was often hard to do with coordinating schedules, travel time, and finding that ever-elusive parking spot.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, many mediators could only use remote mediation in VA to reach…

As collaborative professionals, we recognize that members of the clergy are a significant segment of society often called upon by, and indirectly involved with divorcing parties and their families. In an effort to inform and educate clergy, the authors assembled an article to inform both the clergy and their members about the collaborative divorce process.…