In a mediation the attorney acts as a neutral party who facilitates negotiations between parties. Mediation takes place in the privacy of the lawyer’s office and has the advantage of full participation by both parties. Many people feel mediation is more respectful and less intimidating than the courtroom. In family law, resolution of troubling issues in a private setting allows a healthy transition to co-parenting or single life. The agreements are written down but not the problems. The hurtful and public nature of court proceedings can leave lasting injury between co-parents or those who divorce without children.
	In a collaborative process parties each choose their own attorney who is willing to work collaboratively. The attorneys and both parties sign an agreement that they will work toward resolving issues in an open and respectful manner. The attorneys agree to withdraw from the case if either party decides to take the matter to court. Within this framework all tools available in formal discovery may be utilized to ensure full exchange of information. Often therapists and accountants may be involved in the collaborative process to support the parties as necessary. Collaborative law offers more structure than mediation but provides an alternative to formal litigation which may be preferable to divorcing couples.
	Litigation is appropriate when matters cannot be resolved out of court. In personal injury matters an injured person has a specified time from the date of injury to resolve their claim before filing a lawsuit. Even after filing, a party may be able to take advantage of mediation or arbitration before having a trial. In family law matters parties may elect to take their matter to trial. The court will, if requested, schedule a settlement conference shortly before the trial to promote settlement. Family law trials do not have juries.
	Sometimes a party in a family law matter may not want an attorney to be involved from beginning to end. I offer my services to provide drafting support to self-represented persons, or to appear in court for a particular hearing as a stand-alone service.
	I am available to review any legal matter and give advice as a stand-alone service. In personal injury cases there is no charge for this. In family law matters a consultation is billed at my normal hourly rate. Consultation includes an explanation of the law as it pertains to your particular situation.
	Personal injury matters are handled on a contingency fee basis. I advance all costs to bring the matter to a settlement or a verdict and I collect no fees unless I obtain a recovery for the client. Family law matters are billed on an hourly basis.
	Your legal issues are problems that need solving. I try to guide my clients through without formal litigation when appropriate. If children are involved their interests are paramount in our discussions. I support my clients to find the best solution for their particular situation in the most productive way.
	I graduated from Monterey College of Law in 1998 and have been in private practice since 1999. I have worked as a mediator in the community since 1990 and in the legal field since 1983. I have been an active volunteer and member of the community for 26 years. I serve on a variety of boards of directors in town and have been a proud sponsor of Santa Cruz Little League and County Youth Soccer League teams.
	back to top