What to Expect in Litigation:

• One spouse files for divorce with the court and the other party responds with an answer.
• Each spouse is represented by an attorney who presents their case before a judge.
• Restraining orders are imposed at the commencement of litigation to restrain the other spouse from dissipating their assets.
• Temporary support and parenting plans may be put in place once litigation commences.
• Multiple hearings will occur before a final trial date is scheduled.
• Increases hostility and tension and weakens parenting relationships.
• Some people find litigation overwhelming and may feel pressured to give in because of the stress.
• At the end of the trial the judge will make rulings on the issues the parties do not agree on.
• Attorney fees that commonly range from $10,000–$70,000 per spouse.

Only 3%–5% of cases actually go to trial, but most settle under significant pressure - often right before the trial begins.

Benefits of Litigation:

• One spouse wants to divorce, but the other spouse refuses to cooperate.
• Other methods of resolving the divorce have failed.
• The only option to obtain restraining orders to protect assets.
• Subpoenas are required because one spouse will not share financial documents.

Is Litigation Right For You?

Due to the high emotional and financial costs of litigation - and the greater effectiveness of other resolution methods - Laurie no longer accepts new litigation cases. Instead, she focuses on solution-oriented approaches that support your well-being and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

What to Expect:

Mediation is a guided, supportive process that helps you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Here's how it works:

• Issues are Identified: We begin by identifying the issues that must be resolved to finalize your dissolution.
• Understand the Law: Laurie explains the laws that apply to your situation.
• Make Thoughtful Decisions: No final decisions are made the first time we review a topic. You’ll have time to reflect. This also gives you time to discuss options with your spouse or seek legal advice before making final decisions.
• Guidance Through Complex Dynamics – Laurie’s extensive background as a guardian ad litem and parenting coordinator helps even in challenging family situations.
• Clarity and Insight - Laurie helps you gain clarity and find practical solutions when you feel uncertain or stuck.
• Balanced Communication – Each spouse is heard and understood. Laurie promotes fairness, empathy, and productive dialogue, even during moments of conflict.
• Full Financial Transparency – Both parties are required to share complete financial information to ensure a fair and open process.
• Understanding Support – Using Family Law software, Laurie helps you understand potential spousal and child support outcomes.
• Document Preparation – Laurie provides a written memorandum summarizing your agreements and emails you all the necessary court filing forms to make the process smooth and simple.
• Affordable Resolution – Most couples complete mediation for $1,600–$2,100 per couple, far less than litigation.

Benefits of Mediation:

• You stay in control. You and your spouse make the decisions - not a judge.
• Greater satisfaction. Couples who mediate are often more satisfied with their outcomes than those who go through litigation.
• Easier to move forward. Reaching mutual agreements helps reduce stress and brings clarity to your next chapter.
• Less conflict. Encourages understanding and cooperation, lowers hostility and tension both during and after the divorce.
• Supports healthy co-parenting. Fosters stronger parenting relationships with your children - and with each other.
• Private and Confidential. Mediation sessions are private, and your agreements are prepared to keep your personal information confidential. (Court files are public records.)
• Cost-effective. Avoid the high attorney fees and courtroom battles that often accompany litigated divorces.
• Works for complex finances. Mediation can be an effective way to resolve complicated financial issues, including business ownership or high-asset situations.
• Reduces financial strain. By avoiding prolonged litigation, you can save tens of thousands of dollars and focus on building your future.

Is Mediation Right For You?

Mediation is a great choice if you want to avoid the emotional and financial toll of court battles and instead reach positive, lasting results in a respectful, supportive environment.

Laurie’s approach helps couples move from conflict to clarity - so you can focus on what matters most: your family, your future, and your peace of mind.

Contact Laurie so you can learn more about mediation.

What To Expect:

• Laurie explains your rights and helps you create a plan for reaching a fair dissolution.
• If you don’t have access to financial documents, she will request them to ensure full transparency, as required by the court.
• Negotiations can happen attorney-to-attorney, or with both spouses present - whichever feels most comfortable.
• Agreements are drafted to keep your private information confidential when filed.
• Typical attorney fees range from $1,500 to $3,000 per spouse, depending on your needs.

Benefits:

• Reduces emotional stress by letting attorneys handle the conversations
• Helps you avoid litigation without the pressure of sitting in the same room to mediate
• More affordable than going to court
• Moves at a pace that fits your family, not the court’s schedule

Is Negotiation Right For You?

If you want the guidance and protection of your own attorney - without the cost or conflict of litigation - negotiation may be the right fit.

Ready to Learn More?

If you're ready to start your divorce or dissolution process, or want more details on how negotiation can work for you, Contact Laurie today to schedule your consultation.

What to Expect:

With unbundled services, you choose exactly what you need, such as:

• Advice on what a fair settlement looks like
• Strategy for reaching an agreement with your spouse
• Preparing or reviewing legal documents to ensure nothing is missed
• Coaching during mediation - what to ask for, how to ask, and what the law says
• Reviewing mediated agreements to protect your interests
• Child or spousal support calculations
• Help with parenting plans or parenting issues

Benefits:

• You stay in control of the process - and the cost
• You get expert guidance without involving two attorneys
• Your paperwork is done correctly and completely
• You reduce conflict, avoid court, and keep tension low
• You receive legal support even if your spouse doesn’t want attorneys involved

Is Unbundled Legal Services Right For You?

If you're looking for the benefits of legal counsel without the stress or high costs of full attorney involvement, unbundled services may be a great fit.

Ready to Learn More?

Get the support you need - only where you need it. Contact Laurie today to schedule your consultation.