This article below is Jo-Anne Fiore’s straight-forward explanation of how to optimise the processes of Early Neutral Consultation for your family’s unique circumstances. Jo-Anne Fiore is an experienced financial divorce specialist and mediator.
When two people make that decision to separate and go their own way, the immediate reaction is to run to a lawyer. Not that there is anything wrong with this, but what can happen is that one party finds a very non-adversarial lawyer while the other may land in the hands of a far more aggressive lawyer which can ultimately create bigger conflict than what existed at the start. So how can two individuals contemplating separation keep some calm yet get informed without running the risk of ending up in the wrong office? It’s called an Early Neutral Consultation and it is something that the both of you can do together. What does this mean for your separation? Well, it can mean a lot on how things move along, here are 3 benefits.
Firstly, it is meeting with a neutral professional which is structured and provides information which is specific to your circumstances. You are both welcome to ask questions, clarify misconceptions without needing to make any immediate decisions or negotiations. Information is delivered on the legal process and expectations as well as information on the various options available for settlement. There is a no legal advice given. It gives couples the power to choose to stay out of court and helps them understand the processes that are available to do that.
Secondly, it is an opportunity for both parties to hear the same information and understand the various options available to them at the same time. The two parties are able to make decisions on how to best move forward in the process that will work best for them. Most importantly it maintains co-operation and understanding because the parties will be directed to legal representatives that are more considerate and understanding of the more gentle approaches to family transition. This may include Mediation and or Collaborative law, in helping to resolve the family issues.
Thirdly, once informed the individuals are able to build their team of professionals that will best guide their process. These professionals could be financial divorce professionals, family professionals, family coaches, or therapists. By building the right team you ensure that your financial resources are best spent where they make the most impact thereby saving you time and money while helping to preserve that special family relationship.
Ultimately, as a couple the decision to move forward with conflict versus peace is a personal choice, even though at times the family dynamics may dictate a want to move in a less peaceful fashion you must weigh the impact and possible future consequences on your outcome. The Neutral Consultation is your first step, it won’t hurt your process but it may help improve it.
For more information please contact Jo-Anne Fiore at www.SmartSplitDivorce.com or speak with a family consultant at Family Law Pathways Centre (www.FamilyLawPathways.com).