1. Joy, how can I pay?

You can pay by check, cash, and by credit card. I accept payment by credit card and echeck through Paypal. If you have a credit card, and access to a computer, you can use Paypal.

2. Joy, I have consulted with several lawyers and I am not sure who to pick.

What do you want from a lawyer? If you want someone who is good at case- and team management, does not encourage unnecessary litigation, is easy to reach by telephone and email, works one-on-one directly with you, is highly involved in child advocacy and mental health issues, and is experienced and hard-working, then I may be right for you.

3. Joy, isn’t it really just about winning?

In family and mental health law, it is not just about winning. I like to win, don’t get me wrong. However, the people I work with have so many considerations that "winning" just isn’t the right word. Having your children come out of a divorce still feeling loved and cared for, being able to co-parent despite legal conflict, preserving money and assets, maintaining dignity and one’s values. These are all very important considerations.

4. Joy, will you help me to lie, cheat, and take the low road through this divorce?

No...no, and no. I strongly believe in professionalism and ethics. Judges expect a high degree of professionalism from all attorneys and my behavior reflects on your credibility. We are expected to work cooperatively on case management issues, such as scheduling hearings and depositions. And, we are expected to follow the law and procedural rules, which are extensive, in family law. In the end, working cooperatively and with professionalism saves you money and reduces unnecessary conflict and anxiety.

5. Joy, why shouldn’t I go to my business lawyer to do my divorce?

A competent lawyer can learn unfamiliar areas of the law. But, family law is one of those areas that is highly specialized. The statutes and rules change often. There is an extensive history of case law precedent. There are local rules and customs. In family law, experience counts.

6. Joy, what other professionals besides attorneys do we need for my divorce case?

A good divorce lawyer recognizes the need to use a team of professionals, when possible. We may consider working with a forensic accountant, a divorce financial planner, a forensic psychologist, a family therapist, a mediator, a Guardian ad Litem, an occupational specialist, appraisers, a real estate and/or mortgage specialist, a relocation specialist, and an educational and/or career consultant, depending on the needs and issues of your case.

This website does not create an attorney-client relationship and email communication may not be secure or confidential. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

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