FAMILY LAW

Family Law is a term that encompasses a range of legal issues, the most common of which are; marriage dissolution (divorce), post-decree disputes, and paternity adjudication. Family law also includes planning for an upcoming marriage (pre-nuptial agreements), consulting about options related to problems within a relationship, or negotiating contracts for cohabitation. The establishment of a guardianship or conservatorship for a minor child reaching adulthood or to deal with needs of a vulnerable adult can also be seen as part of a family practice. The common theme is that family law involves people in relationship with each other, and that some sort of change, or transition, is taking place in that relationship.

Each situation is different, and attorneys working in this area have different styles. Ms. Nevers believes that it is important to have a good working relationship with her clients, assisting them in working through their options to focus on an effective legal solution. She is comfortable working within the traditional adversarial model, and has spent countless hours in the courtroom, honing those skills. But she believes that, in many cases, a better result can be obtained though negotiations and collaboration. This can involve using mediation as an integral part of the process, structured communications with both parties and their attorney, or agreeing to use the process called COLLABORATIVE LAW, all focusing on a result that is as fair as possible to all who are involved.

In a Collaborative family matter,  husbands, wives, their attorneys, and any other collaborative professionals working with the family, agree to resolve all issues of their case without contentious court proceedings. Using a team approach, all parties  plan together to craft an agreement, and make thoughtful decisions that can actually work for the entire family.  This approach may be ideal in many situations, particularly those where the goal is to consider the best interests of the children in fashioning a shared approach to parenting.

Most family law matters involve both legal issues and emotions - Laurie works to focus on the legal issues while recognizing that the emotional issues are at the table as well. She believes that her background and experience as a mediator is an asset in her client advocacy, particularly when the emotional issues stand in the way of settlement. She also understands complex financial issues and has access to up to date case management technology that make the process more cost effective. She has the skills and ability to look out for her client's best interests, and to assist them in making their personal life transition through the legal process.