COOPERATIVE REPRESENTATIONTM is a phrase I have coined that summarizes a way of practicing family law which is supportive of family values and children, and encourages rational client behavior. No other kind of case warrants cooperating attorneys more than a family law case.
COOPERATIVE REPRESENTATIONTM expresses a philosophy that is embedded in the mind and heart of the attorney. Without that basic philosophy, all the training and experience available will not create the mindset and attitudes necessary for COOPERATIVE REPRESENTATIONTM.
WHEN IS IT APPROPRIATE?
- WHEN the client prefers to get the legal issues negotiated and resolved in as cooperative and efficient a manner as possible. Trial is not a desired option.
- WHEN the client is not represented and wishes the attorney to negotiate directly with the other party in as cooperative and efficient a manner as possible;
- WHEN the client is in mediation and desires to use an attorney to attend mediation sessions and/or help the client to:
- prepare for mediation sessions;
- make proposals;
- evaluate proposals;
- WHEN the parties have reached an agreement in mediation and the client needs an attorney to review the final court order drafted by the mediator or needs an attorney to draft the final court order based on a Memorandum of Agreement prepared by the mediator.
