Frequently Asked Questions–

What is Collaborative Law?
Collaborative Law is a Legal process. It involves a commitment to settling matters through interest based negotiation, without resort to litigation or threats of litigation. The lawyers chosen by the parties are retained to help them reach a settlement and to assist them as settlement specialists. The aim is for the clients to keep control of the process with their individual lawyer present as a resource. Lawyers educate their clients on the law and guide them in making choices, but it is the client who makes the decision as to what is best for the family. The lawyers draft the agreement into a legal document.

In Rochester, New York we are fortunate to have the Association of Collaborative Family Law Attorneys, Inc., a group of around 100 collaborative professionals with unique training in this discipline. The association website is www.nycollaborativelaw.com . These professionals have pledged to cooperate with each other and families to achieve high functioning resolutions. All members of our firm are members of the Association.

What is the best process for me to resolve family issues like divorce or separation?
Some families work out their differences at the kitchen table and need a lawyer to formalize the agreement that they have worked out. Others use a mediator to negotiate their own settlement and hire an attorney to formalize the mediated settlement. Sometimes clients feel more comfortable collaborating with a lawyer who guides them thought settlement and educates them about the law. In the collaborative process, the client retains control and works toward achieving his or her best settlement resulting in a fair and lasting agreement. High conflict families may want to consider going to Court and asking a Judge to decide what is best for their family. We are comfortable in all of these disciplines.

I am considering adopting a child, when should I consult an attorney and what for?
We encourage you to call in the beginning of your journey so that we can inform you of the legal steps that your particular adoption involves, as well as answer general questions about adoption. Adopting a child is a multi-step process. You will need to be proactive and informed. As attorneys we can assist you with the legal requirements and can give you information regarding other aspects of the process. We provide services in the following areas:

     NYS and International Pre-Certification for placement
     Agency and Private Adoption
     NYS, Interstate and International Adoption
     Adoption Related Litigation
     Strategies for Searching, Networking and Advertising