Chase, Berenstein, and Murray, Counselors at Law

Burlingame, California, Collaborative Practice Divorce Attorney
The collaborative practice approach to divorce begins with a commitment by both spouses not to take their divorce into the courtroom, and instead come to an agreement voluntarily which is best for both of them. Because it relies on confidential meetings which encourage transparency, honesty, and open communication, the collaborative model allows the couple to discern which arrangements regarding division of property, child custody, child support, spousal support, and visitation will be most beneficial, and choose them. Divorce mediation involves a similar approach. Contact me today if you are facing a divorce and feel that the collaborative practice model would be right for you.

The Team Model
In the team model of collaborative practice, my preferred approach, each spouse spends time with a communications coach to foster open communication between the two. Poor communication is the most common factor leading to divorce, and unless the problems it causes are dealt with during negotiation, they will continue to plague the couple’s future in the form of an agreement that doesn’t truly suit them.

Other specialists such as accountants, mental health professionals, and real estate appraisers are also made available for consultation regarding any questions that they would be best fit to answer. Because the appropriate professional is given the appropriate task from the outset of the proceedings, issues surrounding the divorce can be resolved more quickly and the result will be more suited to the clients’ needs.

The Referral Model
The referral model of collaborative practice is similar to the team model, except that there is no team in this “lawyer-centric” mode of dispute resolution. Each spouse still commits not to pursue litigation and the parties still take part in confidential, open meetings. Instead of hiring a team of professionals, however, the attorneys and the couple do their best to reach a decision on their own which takes all factors into account. This works best for divorces with the fewest complications, like couples who have had short-term marriages with no children.

In my family law practice at Chase, Berenstein, and Murray, I am committed to the highest level of professionalism and integrity to ensure that my clients’ family law matters are handled quickly and properly. If you are facing a divorce and feel that you would most benefit from the collaborative practice model, contact me, collaborative practice attorney Lisa Murray, today.  

Chase, Berenstein & Murray
Counselors at Law
1220 Howard Ave., Suite 250
Burlingame, CA 94010
Phone:  (650) 548-1171
 Fax:  (650)548-0565

Chase, Berenstein & Murray, in Burlingame, California, serves clients in San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Francisco County, and the communities of Burlingame, south San Francisco, San Mateo, Hillsborough, Belmont, Millbrae, Foster City, and San Carlos.