High Asset Mediation

As an attorney practicing law, I represented both men and women in high asset divorce situations and have a good understanding of the intricacies involved in handling these matters. In high asset cases  the real issue revolves around distribution of the money with little regard to the emotional ties. Stuff and money can become a ruthless battleground that engages couples in ridiculously expensive litigation for years and creates an enmity between spouses which is unmatched in any other arena in family law. The longer the litigation, the more contentious the situation becomes. The stakes become increasingly high and the parties begin to define themselves in terms of money. Dignity, capabilities, true needs, and the future are no longer part of the equation.

Mediation will take the pride and ego out of the negotiation. Sanchez and Baietto use techniques that encourage a respect for both parties that elevates this issue from a money issue to a people issue. Dignity becomes a huge part of the equation and with skilled mediation both parties start to see the value of the services provided by each partner in the marriage. Both parties begin to genuinely respect the other – , what he does, what she may have done to get the family this far, what sacrifices have been made, how hard both have worked and what the future actually looks like for both parties involved. Do not be surprised when you are having a real, heart to heart conversation with your partner that you never thought would be possible and you find yourself offering options you never dreamed you would even entertain.

Mediation in these kinds of cases transforms the objectified thing of money into the tool that it is and nothing more. Fairness, compassion and understanding of the people involved become the focal point. We will not hesitate to delve into our network of experts from actuaries, appraisers, real estate brokers and other specialists to assist you. If you have already hired an attorney and believe you have a fair classification of the assets, so be it. We can work from there. While your attorney is always allowed to be present, we encourage mediation between the parties alone with no middlemen speaking for either party. You can always have the Final Agreement reviewed by your attorney or subject to a review by an attorney.

Do not shy away from mediation because of the complexities of your case. Do not believe you need litigation because of the value of your assets. That is not necessarily the case. A good example is radio disc jockey and television personality Howard Stern. He amicably settled his divorce through mediation with no lawyers. Yes, that is right, no lawyers. You can bet he saved lots of money, stress, time and notoriety and probably saved his relationships with his then spouse and his children.