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 Mark Alexander |
 Mimi Buescher |
 Patricia E. Kahn |
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Call: 206-784-3049 | ||
Helping Clients Achieve Resolution Without Fighting
My practice emphasizes non-litigation approaches to dispute resolution. I help my clients find ways to resolve their issues without fighting. This means changing the focus from each side trying to force solutions on the the other side to mutually creating solutions that work for both parties. I believe too many lawyers create conflict when our job should be to resolve conflict.
Most of my work is in Collaborative Divorce. Collaboration involves a team approach to resolving cases based on interests rather than power. I believe the Collaborative approach helps you discover the BEST solutions. The Collaborative team will work to help both of you plan the financial future that best meets your needs and goals, and to help you develop a plan to effectively co-parent your children.
Interestingly, the Collaborative approach is not just for amicable couples. It is actually a highly effective method for managing conflict. However, a Collaborative approach is not right for every client. You need to be genuinely interested in finding solutions that work for your spouse as well as for you, and you must be committed to working through the process with your spouse. This work can be difficult, but your professional team will be there to support you through every step.
One benefit of resolving things outside of court is preserving relationships. A therapist I know put it very well when she said that in a divorce, we end the relationship of husband and wife, but the relationships of father, mother, and children continue. It is those relationships of father, mother, and children that need to be protected to the extent possible even when the family is no longer going to be living together. Even where there are no children involved, many people want to end their marriage in a reasonable and adult way that will allow them to look back on their divorce as a time of positive growth rather than the most horrible experience of their lives.
You can contact Mike directly at mike@seattledivorceservices.com
Michael V. Fancher was educated at Harvard University, the University of Washington, and Hastings College of the Law. He has been practicing family law in the Seattle area since 1988. He is the 2011-2012 President of Collaborative Professionals of Washington, and served as the 2008-2010 President of King County Collaborative Law. Mike is a past chair of the Lawyer Referral and the Neighborhood Legal Clinic committees of the King County Bar Association. He has been a speaker at numerous public forums on family law and continuing legal education seminars for attorneys. Mike’s practice is limited to Collaborative cases, pro se assistance, and alternative dispute resolution.
