Since I have been practicing over 35 years as a divorce attorney and mediator,
I have had an amazing array of clients from chefs to celebrities. Regardless
of a client’s position in life, the 3 P’s of Mediation are
appealing to all—Positive, Productive, and Peaceful.
About 8 months ago, an up and coming Amazon Prime actor contacted me for
a consultation. He and his wife had been married 7 years, had 2 children
and lived both in New York and California,
His wife was a make-up artist, and her husband was fed-up with what he
called her "financial excesses." She spent a lot of money on
designer clothes for the children and had redecorated their family home
4 times in 7 years. Although he was finally becoming a highly sought after
actor, he couldn’t afford the lifestyle she had created.
They were in a lot of debt totaling $84,000, their children were being
spoiled, and as a family they were very unhappy. He felt she was irresponsible
and had spoken with her many times. They even tried a therapist and nothing
was working. He felt he couldn’t stay married any more, and he told her.
As is standard in these cases, the wife initially wanted to hire a lawyer.
The husband was fascinated by what he had heard about my unique meditation
process and called me. After our conversation, he was eager to share the
mediation process with her.
Honestly, at first I wasn’t sure mediation would work for them. They
were fighting a lot. During our virtual meetings, I really had to keep
them focused once she agreed to try mediation. The wife was super angry,
especially because she felt her husband wanted out of the marriage because
he had let fame go to his head, and he wanted a younger woman. She shared
her suspicion with me during one of our individual mediation sessions.
It turned out her financial recklessness really had worn on the husband
and he wouldn’t stay in this marriage anymore. This deterioration
had been going on for quite some time.
As the divorce process continued, they settled in to the rhythm of my mediation
process, the anger subsided and they were able to engage in productive
conversations, and make thoughtful decisions.
The husband was fair, and agreed to help with the debts although his wife
had generated most of the debt.
It was important for them to consider mediation for many reasons but, in
particular, it helped them keep their privacy while divorcing, which could
have erupted onto front-page news if they had litigated their matter.
The final outcome was fair. The split of the assets was equitable. The
management of the debts was fair. The custody, support, and visitation
with the children was decided on thoughtfully.
This couple has just received their judgment of divorce and, the family
is adjusting to their new lives.
There is life after divorce. The path you choose to get there can make
all the difference!
If you are thinking of divorce and have questions about mediation and how
it can help you, call me. We can explore together what is possible.
All our
FREE 1 HOUR CONSULTATIONS are discreetly and conveniently conducted virtually to reduce risk!
Call me now and take advantage of a free consultation! 212.734.1551.
I look forward to speaking with you.
Stay healthy and safe!
Warm regards,
Lois
Call New York Divorce Attorney Lois Brenner to learn more about her unique
divorce mediation process.
Receive a Free Consultation today! Call 212.734.1551