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