Divorce may break
your heart.
Collaborative Divorce and Mediation can save your family.
I want to hear your story
When your life is turned upside down by conflict, you need to be heard. My job is helping people through the worst times in their lives through effective negotiation and collaboration, with court as a last resort. Let’s begin with your story.
Family conflicts and divorce are right up there with life’s major stressors – death, serious illness, losing a loved one, or a cherished job.
The feeling of pain is real and visceral. It’s in your gut, your heart. As my mother used to say, “it knocks the crap out of you.” You feel breathless and helpless. And that’s terrible, especially when you need to be your best self.
You need to keep on functioning, taking care of the kids, working your job– when at the same time, your world is falling down all around you. This is not how life is supposed to be. But yet, here you are.
Take a deep breath. Make a cup of your favorite warm beverage. I’m here to listen and help. We won’t be able to fix everything in a day, but together, we’ll chart a course for your future.
We practice Family Law so our clients experience less conflict, pain and expense. We prioritize children’s well-being and future relationships. We specialize in out-of-court, peace-making, sanity-preserving solutions.
Collaborative Law
Using teamwork to find resolution
When both partners choose lawyers who are trained to work peacefully and constructively, solutions happen with less pain for everyone. Collaborative law uses a “team approach” where each partner has their own lawyer to advise them. When needed, other professionals like a child specialist, a financial specialist – are brought onboard, so that each aspect of your divorce gets specialized attention.
Mediation
A neutral guide helps you and your partner uncover customized solutions
Mediation– where couples work together under the guidance of a skilled neutral party to create their own solutions – can be an efficient way to resolve conflicts without the pressures of court-based legal process.
Targeted Court-Based Solutions
Using Court as a last resort
When your partner files a case, you need to file an answer. When there’s an emergency, to protect a child, or when mediation and collaboration fail, the force of law must be used. Having a judge weigh in on the case can often turn it in the right direction.
We can represent you on a project-based, limited appearance/assistance basis, so that your time in court is brief and successful.
Pre- and Post-nuptial Agreements
Clear plans to keep your marriage on the right course
Having a pre or post-nup agreement actually can make your marriage stronger! How? By writing up the underlying agreements and expectations that you and your spouse have for your life together. You and your spouse can build a life together that meets each person’s needs.
Divorce Coaching
When you need a guide on the side
“Coaching” here means what you need when you need it, to resolve your divorce or legal problem. Sometimes you just need someone to review a separation agreement the mediator created. Or you’re stuck on filling out your financial statement. Our goal is to give you cost-effective legal help.
Testimonials
Our Latest Blog Posts
My Values and Approach
While the name of my practice has recently changed, my core values are the same: Empower the Client Be Kind to Everyone Never Stop Learning
The Collaborative Divorce Team: Who’s Involved and Why It Matters in Northampton, MA
Introduction When facing divorce, especially in Northampton and across Western Massachusetts, many couples seek alternatives to traditional litigation. Collaborative divorce provides a structured and supportive
Why High-Asset Divorces Benefit from Collaborative Law in Northampton, MA
Introduction Divorcing with significant assets brings unique challenges, from dividing complex financial portfolios to protecting business interests and maintaining privacy. For high-net-worth couples in Northampton,
Do You Need a Collaborative Divorce Lawyer? Signs It’s the Right Choice
Introduction Divorce is a deeply personal journey, and no two separations look the same. Some couples find themselves locked in conflict, destined for a lengthy
Over 40 years of helping with big life decisions
Kent Collaborative Law (f.k.a. Esser Kent Collaborative Family Law and Mediation) has been helping people throughout the area since 1978. Get in touch with Lisa today to find out how she can help you restructure your family.