I've always worked hard to give my clients a real assessment of their case - I don't yes them to death, and I strive to deliver realistic scenarios and practical legal strategies for my clients. I have never considered myself a 'hand-holder' to my clients. My clients expect me to perform for them in settlement negotiations, in court and in the entire legal process.

From the beginning, I let my clients know that divorce doesn't have to be a war. Going to court has an element of that - I just tell them that, if you choose to go that route, I am always, always well prepared. But I am always candid about the potential outcome.

You have to educate the client on how wide and varied rulings in our jurisdictions can be. In that respect you have to set realistic expectations about what might happen in court.

Throughout my entire legal career in the practice of family law, I have always felt that the more prepared and willing you are to go to court, the more productive and expansive your settlement options become for your clients. I have also always believed in staying open to mediation and attempting to resolve disputes out of court. The jurisdictions are very good about encouraging mediation, and we've worked with many retired judges and mediators, which leads to durable resolution of a case. However, settlement talks can often breakdown, so you need to be fully prepared to litigate if necessary.

Our firm really hit the ground running - we're busy, and we have collective experience of over 40 years. At our core is a tireless work ethic, a dedication and a collegiality that made us effective from the start. I know our clients recognize and appreciate that.