Our stay-at-home routine may have provided some time for reflection for you and your spouse resulting in a renewal of your commitment to each other.  Unfortunately, that reflection may have also resulted in a reality that the “new normal” must involve moving forward with plans for dissolution of your marriage.

Currently, courts are open to handle virtually (by video conference) various aspects of divorce proceedings from beginning to final agreements.  So far lengthy and contested motions and trials are not being heard. Discussion of issues and exchange of required documents to move the matter forward should not require court intervention.

The courts are immediately available to handle abuse and parenting issues on an urgent basis, if appropriate.

It is anticipated that the new reality of the court procedures will encourage “alternative dispute resolution” (ADR) processes including the collaborative divorce model, mediation and arbitration. Both parties in the divorce should understand the differences in the usual route through the court (litigation) and the several ADR processes, including collaboration.

George Reilly has specialized training and experience in litigation and the collaborative divorce model, handling many cases dealing with marital property ranging from modest to ultra-high net worth.  In the collaborative approach the parties commit to working out all issues among themselves with 4-way video conferences and other arrangements rather than in a courtroom.  The parties plan the agenda for the issues to discuss, and they engage other resources such as financial planners and parenting coaches to assist the parties as appropriate.  The parties agree to complete disclosure of all necessary documents without intervention of the court.  Time is managed more carefully by the parties and their counsel than is possible in court resulting in savings in legal fees.  The focus is on comprehensive resolution of all support, property and parenting issues.

George Reilly has been practicing matrimonial law in Fairfield County for more than thirty-five years. For more information, please contact him at 203-202-9686 x254.