Emily DuBois

​​Collaboration:

The Collaborative process is a team approach for couples to reach a fair and equitable
agreement of your own making, without ever going to court. Each party has an attorney
and the attorneys work together cooperatively to support the family and answer
questions. Each party also has a communication coach who addresses psychological
issues that can slow down or even derail your progress; coaches work to create an
emotionally safe environment.

The team also includes a neutral Financial Professional certified in divorce issues who
educates you about the financial considerations of various settlement options and
discuss with you the financial expectations and realities of your situation. Finally, where
there are children, the team includes an independent child specialist who helps parents
understand how to provide the information and support your children need during and
after your divorce process, based on their age and development.

To ensure that all parties feel safe about openly sharing information and interests, the
parties and attorneys agree that the attorneys’ representation ends if a party decides to
leave the collaborative process and start litigation. The goal of the collaborative team is
to help the spouses reach a solid agreement that best serves the whole family.

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Mediation/Consulting:  

Mediation is a voluntary process where the parties make all decisions themselves. Mediators act as a respectful, knowledgeable neutral to help you make decisions together based on the reality you face and your own and each other’s views and interests  Whether you are working together on a premarital agreement, an agreement during marriage, a divorce or "marital settlement" agreement, or on a non-marital dispute, a Mediator can help you work together to find resolution. A Mediator helps you negotiate a fair and equitable agreement that serves you better than your alternative, usually litigation. They explain how the law would apply to your circumstances so you can consider that information in weighing what feels fair and right to you.

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In the role of a Consulting Attorney to someone in mediation, Mediators help you understand the law, your issues, and what might be in your best interests as you work through the process of reaching agreement. My goal is to support you in areas where you may not feel confident, on an as-needed basis, and to review any proposed mediated agreements with you before you commit to them.

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