Practice area IV

Family Law

Steady guidance through separation, parenting and protection of assets. Divorce and separation, parenting arrangements, support, prenuptial agreements and family mediation, with a strong preference for resolving matters without a trial.

What we do

Divorce and separation: Advice on process, property division and support, whether the divorce is agreed or contested.
Parenting arrangements: Parenting plans, custody and relocation questions, and modification of existing orders.
Mediation and collaborative practice: Structured negotiation with a trained mediator, often faster and far less costly than court.
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements: Clear, fair agreements drafted with full disclosure so that they hold up if they are ever tested.
Protective orders: Urgent applications where safety is at issue, made quickly and handled with care.

How a matter proceeds

Step 1
Private first meeting
An unhurried hour to describe your situation and ask anything. There is no obligation to instruct us.
Step 2
A plan you understand
We set out the options, likely timelines and costs in writing, including the option of doing nothing yet.
Step 3
Negotiation and mediation
The majority of our family matters conclude by agreement.
Step 4
Court when necessary
If agreement is not possible, we prepare thoroughly and present your case clearly.

Fees

Hourly with a written estimate at each stage. Fixed fees for uncontested divorces and prenuptial agreements.

Questions we are asked

How long does a divorce take?

It depends on the state and on whether the issues are agreed. An uncontested divorce can finish within a few months; a contested case with children and business assets can take a year or more.

Is mediation suitable for everyone?

Not always. Where there has been abuse, or a significant imbalance of power, other routes may be safer. We assess suitability at the first meeting.

Will I have to go to court?

Often not. Many cases settle through negotiation, but we prepare every case so that the option of court is credible.