Collaborative Family Law in Victoria

The Collaborative process provides a constructive alternative to traditional divorce based on certain core principles: a firm commitment to avoid going to court; an honest exchange of information between both spouses and professionals; and finding a solution that considers the personal values and priorities of each spouse and their children.

A different way to divorce

Separation and divorce are legal events; however, the significant emotional and personal aspects associated with this major life transition should also be addressed. Mutual respect and consideration are fundamental to this process, leading to productive discussions and usually a comprehensive settlement. The Collaborative process involves an honest exchange of ideas and information, and is focused on you and what works for your family. You will always be in control of the decisions made, rather than allowing a judge to decide what is best for your family.

Ending a relationship can be one of the most difficult times you will ever face. The process you choose to follow in resolving the legal aspects should not make your conflict or pain worse. In this work, we often ask, ‘what do you want your children’s story of your divorce to be?’ The goal will always be to help you create a positive one.

Benefits:

Private and confidential

Peaceful

Cooperative

Empowering

Respectful

Healing

Collaborative Team Members

A team of skilled professionals is available when required. You may select as many or as few team members, in addition to the lawyers, as appropriate to your circumstances. These professionals have specific expertise and each one will help manage a different aspect of the divorce. Only team members with special training in Collaborative practice will be selected.

Collaborative Lawyer:

Although you will not go to court, the legal issues must still be settled. Your lawyer will advise you on the law, with the goal of reaching a durable settlement, while remaining committed to working within the unique Collaborative model.

Divorce Coach:

Divorce is a major life event with strong emotional components. A mental health professional, trained in the Collaborative process, can help you manage the pain you may be experiencing during this time, while focusing on your goals for the future. Your Coach will help you bring your best self to the table during negotiations.

Financial Specialist:

A financial professional can be involved to help you consider and analyze your current financial situation and viable options for the future. This information will then be reviewed with the lawyers who will help you create a comprehensive legal agreement.

Child Specialist:

A Child Specialist is skilled in working with and understanding children, and can meet with your children privately to help them express their feelings, hopes and concerns. This information will then be communicated to the team, as appropriate, for consideration.

Collaborative Family Law Resources

Can Collaborative Divorce actually save me money?

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About Kirstin

Kirstin Menzies has over 15 years of experience in family law. She focuses on family law mediation and other out of court processes.

Mediation

Kirstin is certified as a Family Law Mediator, and can guide you towards resolution in an efficient and structured way.

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Kirstin helps people settle family law matters on their own terms, while retaining control of the process.


Menzies Family Law in Victoria

Family Conflict ∞ Peaceful Resolution
Kirstin E. Menzies* B.Sc., J.D. is here to help.
Please contact us for further information.

Menzies Family Law acknowledges with respect and gratitude – the Lekwungen speaking peoples of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations – and also the WSÁNEĆ First Nation – on whose traditional and unceded territory we do our work. We honour our hosts, whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.

*Law Corporation, doing business as Menzies Family Law

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(250) 940-2088

info@menziesfamilylaw.ca

Westshore

211-2840 Peatt Road
Victoria, BC V9B 3V4

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Available throughout BC
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All material contained on this website is general information only. It does not constitute legal opinion or advice. Menzies Family Law does not guarantee the currency or accuracy of the content. Please contact a practicing lawyer in your area for legal advice.