Why work with other professionals?

Unmani and Betsy encourage their clients to get the most accurate information available to make the challenging decisions divorce or probate demands. The most accurate information is sometimes beyond the scope of family law or trusts and estates training, and instead lies with other professionals-such as family relations specialists, clinical psychologists, financial planners, tax attorneys, estate/trust attorneys, CPAs, and business valuators.

In mediation, where the law doesn't automatically take center stage, there is room for other professionals to give sound guidance. This team approach has clients served by the professionals who specialize in the information the clients need. As the mediator, Unmani or Betsy coordinates the information given by the other professionals and fits it into the mediation framework. Clients sign a release of confidentiality between the professionals they choose to work with so the professionals are able to help resolve the clients' issues as a team.

An integral key to successful mediation is getting the most accurate information from the professionals best trained to give it.

Mediator-Attorney

Mediator-attorneys facilitate communication and compromise on all related issues. They provide neutral legal information and are able to do all the paperwork to effectuate the clients' legal process, meaning most clients never have to appear in court.

Family Relations Specialists

Family relations specialists, also known as coaches and/or child specialists, are licensed mental health professionals who consider clients' child-custody arrangements or other family relationships and aid the clients in developing solutions that fit the needs of all people involved: parents, children, siblings, and others. Family relations specialists also work with clients on practicing good communication skills, which aids in the mediation process and develops good habits for future relationships, such as co-parenting.

Financial Specialists

Financial specialists project the full financial consequences of any decisions related to asset allocation or possible support. Additionally, their knowledge concerning tax implications, long-term or otherwise, often saves clients money.

Business Valuators, Vocational Evaluators, Forensic Accountants

Though used less often, the expertise of these professionals is occasionally integral to developing an informed resolution.