Services

Every family is unique.  The attorneys at Canter•Moorhead possess expertise in several distinct methods of resolving dissolution of marriage,  dissolution of domestic partnership, including Collaborative Practice, Mediation, and Litigation.  In addition, we serve as Consulting Counsel in mediated dissolutions and provide guidance for ongoing issues of custody, visitation and support. We prepare Pre and Post-Marital Agreements.  We also provide Estate Planning services for our clients.

Let us tailor an approach that will lead you to the right outcome in your case.

Collaborative Practice
In Collaborative Practice, both spouses (partners) and attorneys work together in a cooperative, rather than an adversarial, environment.  This is different from mediation in that each spouse (partner) retains a lawyer, but everyone involved agrees to work through the issues without going to court.  Together we formulate options and creative solutions that meet your individual needs as well as those of your family. (back to top)

If you would like to learn more, please visit http://www.collaborative-law.com/, www.cpcal.com/ or http://www.collaborativepractice.com/.  You can also read an article entitled “Collaborative Practice: there is a better way” (pdf) by Pamela Canter.

Mediation
In mediation, we use our negotiating and legal skills to help you and your spouse (partner) work together to reach a resolution. We help you identify areas of agreement and difference and help you understand how the court might view each issue. We then provide you with multiple suggestions and options. In the end, all decisions are made between you and your spouse (partner). (back to top).

Litigation
In cases where parties cannot reach a resolution using other means, the attorneys at Canter•Moorhead possess the trial experience to vigorously represent you in the litigation process. (back to top)

Consulting Counsel (for mediation cases)
We provide legal analysis and creative options for possible settlement alternatives.  We give you an experienced legal eye on the final documents drafted by your mediator. (back to top)

Custody and Visitation
At Canter•Moorhead we can assist you in making sure your custody and visitation rights are well protected.  When appropriate, we utilize the services of mental health professionals to assist you in creating a parenting plan that is tailor made for your family. (back to top).

Support
We help you understand your options in the area of spousal and/or child support.  Your changing circumstances, as well as changes in law may affect what you pay or receive.

We are experienced in helping you make sure your support orders are properly enforced. (back to top)

Pre and Post Marital Agreements
More and more clients find the need for pre and post marital agreements.  We have developed a successful approach to the creation of these agreements to help you avoid future litigation. (back to top)

Estate Planning
We work with our clients to develop an individual estate plan, including living trusts and wills, which will help avoid probate and minimize taxes.  We also prepare documents to assist our clients at all stages of life, including Powers of Attorney and Advanced Health Care Directives.  (back to top)