Process Options

Let us help you choose a path forward that minimizes the stress and the uncertainty you face.  Here are some ways we can assist you:

The attorneys at Zamani & Associates are committed to helping couples unwind marriages and relationships in a thoughtful, holistic and practical manner. Please contact us to discuss these options in more detail.

Process Option
Advice and Consultation

Not every individual facing separation or divorce needs legal counsel at every juncture.  For many reasons, you may only need a consultation for guidance on navigating process options that meet your priorities, to assess the range of possible outcomes in your case, to understand the legal implications of your contemplated actions, to seek expertise on a particular issue, such as the division of retirement benefits or jurisdiction, or to identify appropriate resources.  

We can work with you to advise you in a limited and creative way that meets your family’s needs where appropriate.

Process Option
Mediation

Mediation is a confidential out-of-court settlement process where a neutral mediator works with you to reach an agreement on as many issues as possible that need resolution between you. 

Our attorneys may serve you in one of two roles:    

Mediate for you:  We are often asked to serve as neutral mediators, providing thoughtful, creative, and cost-effective guidance to you to reach a resolution.  We bring years of experience to bear to facilitate resolution in all areas of family law.

Advise you during mediation: We also participate alongside you in mediation as your trusted counsel and advocate. In this role, we will work with you to help you shape your goals, assess your needs in light of the prevailing law and other important reference points in your life, and assist you in advocating for your needs with expertise and skill.

No matter the role, we are dedicated to providing guidance to you to meet your goals and reach lasting agreements.

Process Option
Collaborative Process in Divorce and Separation

Couples choose the Collaborative Process to come together to separate well.  Of all the process options available to separating partners, the Collaborative Process provides individuals with the greatest degree of control in decision-making as they undergo transition.  The Collaborative Process enables separating individuals to:

  • Remain forward-looking following separation 

  • Engage in a child-centric process 

  • Face challenges in the safety of and with the support of a team (affairs, substance abuse, support) 

  • Reach settlements with dignity

  • Secure means for their financial needs now and in the future 

  • Establish a practical post-separation relationship with your partner

  • Conserve financial and emotional resources as clients transition into two households

The attorneys at Zamani & Associates are trained in Collaborative Practice and are leaders in their community, working to improve the standard of practice across the Washington Metropolitan area. All of our attorneys are highly skilled practitioners.

Process Option
Negotiation

The vast majority of our cases are resolved through a negotiated settlement, a confidential out-of-court process option, typically where both parties are represented by counsel. 

Our attorneys will approach your case by identifying your personal, family, and financial goals in light of your family’s unique circumstances, and gathering and thoroughly analyzing pertinent information. We bring expertise and years of experience to bear to provide you with the sound, objective legal advice you need to assess possible outcomes in your case, to call upon neutral experts that may be needed in advance (e.g., related to mental health issues or valuation of an asset), and to both extend and assess proposals of settlement. Our clients and colleagues value our ability to constructively advocate on behalf of our clients to reach mutual and durable settlement agreements.

Process Option
Litigation

Litigation is a court-based process option where a judge will resolve your matter in controversy based on the evidence presented and the prevailing laws at the time.  While our attorneys work diligently to reach fair and favorable outcomes for our clients through negotiated settlements, we also understand that litigation may be a necessary and appropriate process option to reach a resolution in your case.

Our attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and are skilled in thoroughly and strategically advancing our client’s best interests in court.

Whatever the matter in controversy, the choices you make at the start of your divorce will greatly impact your divorce experience and your loved ones.  Let us give you a comprehensive overview of all your options and counsel you about the one that may best fit your needs. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.