Answers from Attorney Betty Ann Spencer, in Santa Rosa, California
When you are experiencing marital difficulties or are considering filing for divorce, it can be common to feel overwhelmed by the directions you can take. If you have never been involved in a family law matter before, you may have no idea what to expect or what you need to do to prepare for divorce, mediation or the collaborative family law process.
I understand the confusion that often surrounds men and women who are thinking about divorce or are dealing with marital issues. The information provided below is designed to answer basic questions you have about the services I provide, so you know what to expect and how to prepare so that I can help you resolve your legal matters.
Experienced and approachable, I focus my efforts on providing a place where you and your children come first, where you are free to experience the emotions involved in a family law matter while receiving high quality legal counsel. A licensed marriage family therapist as well as a lawyer, I will work with you to help you resolve your marital problems with dignity. For a free 30 minute initial consultation, contact me or call my office at (707) 570-2424.
What I Will Ask of You During the Process
Whether you hire me to take you through the traditional divorce process or you want to explore alternative means of dispute resolution, such as mediation or the collaborative family law approach, I will ask you to:
- be totally forthcoming about all issues relevant to your case, whether you think they help you or hurt you
- deliver all requested documents to me in a timely manner
- ask me questions any time you do not understand something
- respond to all my requests in an honest and timely manner
- maintain your self-awareness and be willing to consider your role in any marital conflict
- focus on the future, not on the past
What's it Like to Work with Me?
Before a client retains me, I believe it is important that they have a good understanding of what it's like to work with me. When you hire me to help you with a marital issue, you can expect that I will:
- be a significant part of your support team
- take the time necessary to make certain you understand your current situation
- work with you to develop options to help you put the past behind you and move forward
- help educate you, so that you develop the skills necessary to come to an agreement that works for everyone involved, including your children and your ex-spouse.
To schedule a free 30 minute consultation, contact my office or call me at (707) 570-2424. I am available to meet with clients between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday. I accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express.
A Collaborative PlaceTM, where you and your children come first.
