You are part of an amazing community. Wait. Let me restate that. YOU are an amazing community. Last month, I asked you to join the CDT Board in donating one billable hour of your time, and you came through in flying colors. At the conclusion of the conference, this amazing community raised a total of just over $30,000 to help keep CDT operational and building our Collaborative footprint. The Board of Directors gives you our most heartfelt thank you for your gift. What’s that you say? What’s … [Read more...]
Julian Schwartz named the 2023 recipient of the Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law
Congratulations to Julian Schwartz on being named the 2023 recipient of the Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law. As a Credentialed Collaborative Professional, Julian’s practice is focused on representing clients in collaborative family law matters. A former Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy, Julian is a Fellow with the Texas Bar Foundation, a Fellow of the College of the State Bar of Texas, and a long-time member of Collaborative Divorce Texas where he served … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter
March has arrived along with the realization that it’s already March! As I write this, it is the second anniversary of the day the world the shut down due to the virus-that-shall-not-be-named. It’s amazing to think about how much our world has changed in such a short period of time – including our Collaborative world and the opportunities it has given us to change how we operate on a day to day basis. What’s a good example? How about the opportunity to work with other Collaborative professionals … [Read more...]
President’s Letter – February 2023
Happy February, Collaborative Friends. It’s the month of love. How much do you love that you have a better way to offer people who have made the difficult to decision to divorce? Well, it’s time to show that love and pitch in to build up our professional community! After all, the more professionals we have doing this work, the more potential clients who will find this amazing process. I have been challenging you since August with easy suggestions that require a minimal time investment to help … [Read more...]
President’s Letter – January 2023
Happy 2023! It’s a new year and for many, a time for new goals. For me, it’s a renewed commitment to prior goals – growing our Collaborative Divorce Texas membership and increasing awareness of this amazing process in the greater public. Will you join me and make this renewed commitment? Since I began my tenure as President of CDT in June, I have asked you to join me in completing monthly tasks that would help us to grow the organization. Many of those monthly tasks have been to lay the … [Read more...]
New Year’s (Collaborative) Resolutions
The New Year is upon us. Let’s make 2023 a momentous year for our Collaborative Community. CDT remains committed to growing awareness and use of Collaborative Divorce and to foster more opportunities for you to open collaborative cases and bring dignity and optimism for the future to families throughout Texas. To accomplish this, CDT needs its members to make and keep a few “Collaborative New Year’s Resolutions.” Resolve to encourage clients to use the Collaborative Process and educate … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter – December 2022
The end of the year is here. I won’t say “finally here” because for me, I feel like we just got through January. I hope it has been a busy and prosperous year for you. And I hope part of that busy has been completing at least some of those monthly challenges I have been sending out to you since June. I’ve got one for you this month that allows you to sit at home in the comfort of your bunny slippers: Review your website identity: Do you present yourself as a Collaborative Professional or is … [Read more...]
Practice Tip – Don’t Forget to Listen
What does it mean to really listen and why is it important in a collaborative case? Really listening requires paying attention to the words spoken, to hear the spoken words with thoughtful attention. Too often, even in collaboratives cases, we are listening to respond instead of to understand. We feel a need to respond immediately with a solution instead of through thoughtful, curious questions and taking the time to hear the client’s interests behind the strict words spoken. We are focusing on … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter – November 2022
We say this every year – it’s hard to believe it’s November already! And yet, it’s here. We are all busy. Busy with clients who want to finish their cases before the end of the year. Busy with all things that come with the holiday season that we are almost knee-deep in. But the need to spread the word about the existence and benefits of Collaborative does not take a break during this time. My question for you is this – can you spare 30 minutes of your time in the next month to help grow … [Read more...]
Recognizing and Handling Parent-Child Contact Problems in Collaborative Divorce
Parents care deeply for their children and want to mitigate the negative impact divorce can have. Parents who choose collaborative divorce over litigation do so because they are committed to putting the needs of their children first. We all know if children are to grow up healthy, both physically and emotionally, they need to have good relationships with both parents - before, during, and after the divorce. While the collaborative divorce process has many mechanisms in place that offer our … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter – October 2022
First, a big THANK YOU to all of you who are joining me in the monthly challenges to spread the good word about Collaborative and bring new member to Collaborative Divorce Texas. You met with lawyers unfamiliar with Collaborative. You invited non-members to our October Lunch-and-Learn. Now I have a new 30-day challenge for you: Take a Mental Health Professional Out for Coffee! One of the best ways we can make Collaborative the preferred method of divorce in Texas is by making sure that … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
October 2022 20th 6:00-7:30 P.M. Collaborative Divorce Collin County Team Thursday Speaker: Robin Watts, M.S., LPC-S, “Out of Balance? Turtling, Tornadoing, and the Importance of the Space Between.” Dinner will be catered by Babe’s. First Floor, 7160 N. Dallas Parkway, Plano, Texas 75024 If you wish to attend, send an email at camille@ccscrogginslaw.com no later than noon on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, with the names of all attendees for whom you are replying. The cost of the meal … [Read more...]
Practice Tip – Smart Clients Understand (Common Sense Negotiation)
Many clients think they are savvy negotiators, but they often fail to understand how their behaviors and attitudes towards each other throughout any divorce process effects the end result. What you and I see as common-sense negotiation tactics, are anything but that to our highly agitated divorce clients. We have all seen the Wife make digs at the unfaithful husband continuously throughout the divorce case. While such disparagement likely makes the Wife feel a bit satisfied for a few moments, … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter – September 2022
FREE CLE/CE! That’s right. I have an offer to make you. It’s your next “30-day challenge” that I promised I would be sending each month as this year’s President of CDT. As a member of CDT, you know about our amazing Lunch and Learn Series with informative topics and experienced speakers. And you know that as a member of CDT, you get free CLE/CE for attending these hour sessions. So here’s the offer: We’re going to make it easy for you to spread the word and bring more professionals into the … [Read more...]
Practice Tip – How To Effectively Debrief A Collaborative Joint Meeting
As Collaborative professionals, we have talked the talk for many years. We have said we need to debrief after each of our Collaborative joint meetings to learn and become better Collaborative professionals. But how many of us walk that walk? How many debrief sessions have you been in where the professionals talked about what the clients did or didn’t do instead of what the professionals did or didn’t do? If we’re going to become better Collaborative professionals, we need to change that. We need … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
September 2022 14th, 15th and 16th CDT Basic Training San Antonio (In Person) - Register Here 30th Applications for Credentialing and Master Credentialing for the class of 2023 are due October 2022 4th CDT Lunch and Learn Speakers: Cindi Graham, JD & Christy Ford, LPC"The Grieving Process and its Effects on the Collaborative Process" (Zoom) 27- 30 IACP 23rd Annual Networking and Educational Forum -Share the Collaborative Magic(In Person) Gaylord … [Read more...]
Practice Makes(Collaborative) Perfect
Beginning this month, it is CDT’s plan to feature in this Newsletter a monthly practice or practical tip submitted by one of you, its members. Such may be advice on how a member, or a team, successfully dealt with a unique issue or a persistent problem in the handling of cases, about improving interaction with clients or fellow professionals, or things learned that will help us all become better collaborative practitioners. From Checklists to Chakras. Techniques on problem solving and problem … [Read more...]
CDT President’s Letter – August 2022
How is it August already? Many of us just attended the annual Advanced Family Law Conference, some of us skipped it and went on vacation, some of us dropped kids off at college, and others dropped theirs off in the carpool line. Time to work! Last month, I did my best to remind everyone about our amazing Collaborative village. And I shared that if we don’t all work together, our village is going to get smaller and eventually become extinct. So, what can YOU do to help keep this movement … [Read more...]
Gay C. Cox Award Presentation
Having received this award last year was the greatest honor of my professional life—being able to present the award to this year’s recipient comes close to that and I so wish I could be there in person to do so. On the other hand, I can’t imagine a better substitute for doing the honors and reading these words from the bottom of my heart. First I would like to thank the committee which had representatives from around the state. We had an outstanding pool of nominees and I am happy to report … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
September 2022 14th, 15th and 16th CDT Basic Training San Antonio (In Person) - Register Here 30th Applications for Credentialing and Master Credentialing for the class of 2023 are due October 2022 4th CDT Lunch and Learn Speakers: Cindi Graham, JD & Christy Ford, LPC"The Grieving Process and its Effects on the Collaborative Process" (Zoom) 27- 30 IACP 23rd Annual Networking and Educational Forum -Share the Collaborative Magic(In Person) Gaylord … [Read more...]
Greetings and Gratitude
In June, Collaborative Divorce Texas welcomed two new members to its Board of Directors, Liza Greene & Becky Davenport. Liza is an attorney with the Houston firm of Laura Dale & Associates, P.C. and is one of only a handful of Texas attorneys to have Board Certifications in both Family Law and Consumer Bankruptcy. She is affiliated with Gulf Coast Family Law Specialists, Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, Houston Association … [Read more...]
Be a Peacemaker
It remains critical to Collaborative Practice that our community continually “gets the word out” about the benefits of Collaborative Divorce. To educate and encourage others to join in CDT’s efforts to revolutionize the practice of Family Law. 2022 Gay G. Cox Award winner Julie Quaid took the opportunity at this month’s Advanced Family Law Seminar to do just that, using her acceptance speech before the Texas Family Law Bar to deliver the following message: “I am … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
February 2022 24 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM PST IACP presents Elisabetta Valentini, Don't Be Afraid of "Matrix"! Let's Turn The Light On Virtual Negotiations and Master Them Webinar To register: https://www.collaborativepractice.com/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=151 March 2022 3-5 Collaborative Professionals of Washington 15th Annual Conference 24 and 25 “Spring Conference 2022” SBOT Collaborative Law Course to be held at the Westin Galleria Hotel – Dallas. (In Person) 25 … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
January 2022 26-28 Building a Satisfying Collaborative Practice An Online Training Partnership of IACP and Mosten Guthrie Academy (Virtual) February 2022 1 First Lunch and Learn of 2022 at 12:00 - 1:00pm - Speakers: Rhonda Cleaves, JD & Honey Sheff, Ph.D., Topic: Effective Debrief 8 Civility Session with the Collaborative Professionals of Southeast Michigan Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84848112989 Contact email: … [Read more...]
Come One, Come All
While COVID did not slow the use of the collaborative process, and in fact, provided through its adaptability, one more reason why it is superior to litigation, it did impact the bond that collaborative professionals share. The experience of “up close and in person” collegiality with like-minded professionals has been negatively affected by COVID. I think you will be pleased to learn that with vaccines, boosters and/or appropriate COVID protocols, the band is getting back together (so to speak - … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
Hello 2022! We are beginning a new year and a fresh perspective. We are a community of professionals, focused on bringing a better way to get our clients to their new normal. I believe your CDT membership helps make this possible, honoring the future of children, legacy and relationships. I was blessed to have a mentor in my friend John Anderson, who taught me an impactful concept. That concept is that we are walking on hallowed ground. I took this to mean that when a couple makes a decision … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
January 2022 12, 13, 14 and 20- IACP Introductory Collaborative Practice Training. Non-Members Welcome (Virtual) https://www.collaborativepractice.com/event/1st-quarter-2022-online-introductory-interdisciplinary-collaborative-practice-training 26-28 Building a Satisfying Collaborative Practice An Online Training Partnership of IACP and Mosten Guthrie Academy (Virtual) https://www.collaborativepractice.com/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=144 February 2022 1 First … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In the Collaborative Community
December 2021 2 and 3 - CLI Minnesota Forum Non-Members Welcome Virtual and In Person https://www.collaborativepractice.com/event/cli-minnesota-annual-forum-2021 January 2022 12, 13, 14 and 20 - IACP Introductory Collaborative Practice Training. Non-Members Welcome Virtual https://www.collaborativepractice.com/event/1st-quarter-2022-online-introductory-interdisciplinary-collaborative-practice-training March 2022 3-5 Collaborative Professionals of Washington 15th Annual … [Read more...]
Their Process, Their Party
Scott Clarke left us with an important reminder in his last presentation at Collaborative Divorce Texas’ annual Spring Conference: it is the parties’ process. I am constantly reminding myself of same as I try to improve my skills as a collaborative attorney. One way I do so is not only continuing my training and education but immersing myself in the collaborative community in Texas, across the country and throughout the world. Learning from and observing the awe-inspiring talent that has … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
It is that time of year again, Holiday Season!! So much fun, food and merry making for many, unfortunately not for all. We are in a business where we witness some pretty challenging emotions and financial stress during this season, compounded by the parenting schedules! This is another example of how the collaborative process and team approach is a great option for communication skill-building and financial accountability during these times. In the Collaborative Process, we try to help the … [Read more...]
One More Reason to Divorce Collaboratively
Last month, a Kentucky judge in a Bullitt County Family Court declined to grant a divorce after hearing the prove up for the divorce, and instead, sent the couple back to counseling. The parties had previously tried counseling several times, but those attempts were unsuccessful. The Judge’s rational for this ruling was that because the parties cordially resolved their divorce and put the interests of their child before their own, their marriage must not be irretrievably broken. Even the … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
To quote my Italian paisano, Leonardo Da Vinci, “Learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears, and never regrets.” A great tool that CDT prides itself on is excellent training and educational sessions. This year we have implemented a monthly ‘Lunch and Learn’ hour that creates a space where CDT members can share their experience using the Collaborative disciplines. Another is our Spring Conference each year. This is a special time to hear from many Collaborative … [Read more...]
Virtual Basic Interdisciplinary Training
Participants must attend ALL sessions (there is only one registration for all four half-day sessions) to receive credit for the Collaborative Basic Training by Collaborative Divorce Texas standards and for credentialing purposes. If a participant is only able to attend a portion of the days, application can be made for those hours of CLE/CE credits. Thursday November 4, 2021 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Friday November 5, 2021 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. AND Thursday November 11, 2021 … [Read more...]
What’s Going On In The Collaborative Community
October 2021 28-31th The International Academy of Collaborative Professionals’ 22nd Annual Forum: Lighting the Way Together will take place live and in person in San Diego, California. For more information about the Forum and a detailed description of the planned presentations go to: https://www.collaborativepractice.com/iacp-forum For those unable to attend in person, IACP has created an opportunity to virtually attend a modified Forum Beacon When We Are Apart. For … [Read more...]
Summer Is Over, So Why Are The Dog Days Still Here?
Summer 2021 is winding down however, COVID Is not. While increase in the number of vaccinated has occurred, Delta has slowed our return to “normalcy”. The light at the end of the tunnel just seems to keep drifting farther. That reality weighs upon us, personally and professionally. It also weighs upon our clients. Nerves can be a little more on edge. Emotions run a little higher. Attention is more easily distracted and patience a little too thin. Therefore, we as collaborative … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
MLK, Jr. said, “the time is always right to do the right thing.” This is a principle at the very core of why CDT exists and why I’m involved in this process – to add value to our professional platforms and to efficiently make progress every time we connect with those we serve. As we have witnessed extreme styles of political and social polarization of late, it’s possible some of it may have also spilled over into the lives of our clients, and thus …into our practices. My hope is that CDT can … [Read more...]
Credentialing: Can I Get It Done?
Since the collaborative process is about transparency, if you are asking this question today the honest answer is probably not for this year’s class of applicants (although you can certainly try). While not impossible, the application process was designed to be challenging so that the achievement would have significance and be worth the effort it required. Credentialing is not a rubber stamp process, nor is it simply an “application” to fill out and submit with a guarantee of acceptance. As a … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
Looking forward to our new normal, even as we experience more variants, we continue to redefine some of the rhythms of life and work. I want to talk about a unique rhythm of Collaborative divorce that I believe is a special and essential value to our process. If I may share…having spent a decade in the restaurant industry, followed by another decade in construction, my friend John Anderson convinced me it was time to dedicate full time and energy to the practice of business valuation and … [Read more...]
Distinguish Yourself, Shine Your Light and Get Credentialed
For over 20 years the worldwide Collaborative Divorce Movement has been devoting its efforts in educating the public on the benefits of this process to protect and preserve the co-parenting relationship, shelter children from harm in custody litigation and enable couples to uncouple in a civil, caring, and compassionate manner. Those efforts by you, me and CDT have created a greater demand for Texas couples to choose Collaborative Divorce as the preferred method to dissolve their … [Read more...]
President’s Corner
As my first act as the new President for CDT, I want to acknowledge all the CLI-TX/CDT Presidents and Trustees that have served us so very well and extend my gratitude. I am both humbled and honored to work among professionals, who walk with clients during some of the hardest and most painful times of life. I know that there is no need to remind the members of CDT of the virtue in the critical work you do to help families in the divorce process. I appreciate the time and care you give … [Read more...]
A Little Farther Afield
For those seeking an even broader perspective on the use and differences in collaborative law practice around the globe, the Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals (AACP) is holding an 8-part session series, the 2021 Road to Resolution Conference from April – November 2021. AACP RTR will be live-streamed online to offer a safe, secure and flexible experience for attendees to access from home, work or abroad. It also allows opportunity to those in Texas to attend a conference that … [Read more...]
A Few Words About Our Outgoing President
“Kid in a candy shop” is a great way to describe how our outgoing CDT Board President, Julie Quaid felt when she learned about Collaborative Law 20 years ago. Her excitement to learn everything about the process and implement it in her family law practice became her professional quest. She trained repeatedly (still does) and fully immersed herself in the new, better, and less destructive way for families to resolve divorce and child issues. And, as same was consistent with her personality and … [Read more...]
A Changing of the Guard
June marks the beginning of a new Board of Directors and Officers, and sadly, the end of the tenure of one who has worked tirelessly to help CDT be the best state Collaborative Association in the country. New board members are Mary Beth Dennie and Jamie Patterson. Mary Beth is a family counselor based in Weatherford, Texas. She holds a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology and is licensed by the State of Texas to provide psychotherapy and counseling services to individuals of all … [Read more...]
Spotlight on CDT Executive Director Ronda Robinson
The Board of Trustees of Collaborative Divorce Texas is happy to announce that after seventeen years of filling the role on a part time basis, Ronda Robinson has agreed to provide her services as CDT’s Executive Director full time. As Executive Director, Ronda is responsible for the day-to-day activities of CDT. She wears many hats and wears them all equally well. At any given moment, Ronda can change hats according to CDT’s needs. As most of our members know Ronda from her most visible … [Read more...]
LUNCH & LEARN – Presented by Jennifer Tull, JD: Expanding the Pie when Negotiating Children’s Schedules
Date: June 1, 2021Time: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm via ZOOM We have all had the client who wants to compare the number of days per month he or she has with the children to the number of days the children will spend with their other parent. That seems understandable, if not reasonable. Then there are the parents who want to compare hours, or waking hours, weekend hours, or non-school waking hours, or hours outside of school and extracurricular activities when they can be with … [Read more...]
Sometimes It is Not About the Orange – A Review of May’s Lunch & Learn Presentation
The beauty of Collaborative Divorce and the collection of voices in CDT was punctuated by May’s “Lunch and Learn” presentation on “Curious Listening” by Syd Sharples, MBA, LCSW (assisted by Kris Algert, Tasha Rock and Julie Quaid). The topic addressed revealed how collaborative practice continues to evolve and redefine itself, never resting on its laurels. “Curious Listening” is a concept and technique that grew from the recognition that sometimes it is not about the “orange”. In many cases, … [Read more...]
Expand Your Reach
Membership in Collaborative Divorce Texas is crucial to a successful Collaborative Divorce Practice. It provides access to forms, training, education, shared marketing and critically, interaction and connection with like-minded professionals. Along with membership, CDT facilitates a sense of Community. Our statewide community is expansive but it is also extremely important to participate in the collaborative community at all levels. Becoming active in your collaborative practice group, local bar … [Read more...]
Lunch And The Polyvagel Theory
CDT’s Education and Training Committee, chaired by Carol Mapp, devised a ingenious way to bring continuing education to our members during a time when going to seminars and trainings has been limited by the COVID pandemic. On April 6th, members of CDT were treated to the first of a series of free Lunch and Learn presentations. This one was skillfully reported by our own Jennifer Leister and Melinda Eitzen along with Charissa Fry, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Sunnyvale. The … [Read more...]
CDT Presenting “Lunch And Learn” Series
On April 6, 2021 Collaborative Divorce Texas initiated its virtual “Lunch and Learn” series which features a cross section of experienced collaborative professionals discussing various issues of common interest to those who practice collaborative divorce - all from comfort of your desk/desktop. The series of unique one-hour presentations will be held at noon on the first Tuesday of each month through November, 2021. Not only will CDT members gain great insight from the Lunch and Learn, but … [Read more...]
A Collaborative Professional’s Experience Using Her Skills With Her Aging Parents
Recently, my family had the extraordinarily grueling challenge of helping our parents come to the realization that they could no longer live on their own. While in rehab following my father’s brain surgery, he admitted to my sisters and me he could no longer care for our mother. And while our mother thought she was fully capable of caring for herself and him, the reality was much different. Any time my sister or I even mentioned our parents leaving their home, our mother became … [Read more...]
Registration for Advanced Training – 2021-06-24-25
THIS TRAINING IS AT CAPACITY AND IS CLOSED. If you want to be put on the wait list, please email Ronda at Ronda@CollaborativeDivorcetexas.com. … [Read more...]
Don’t Miss This Summer’s Advanced Training!
Last year we missed CDT’s annual Advanced Training, but thankfully, it is back on the schedule this year. Jacinta Gallant, a Canadian collaborative lawyer, conflict trainer, mediator and innovator will be presenting virtually but still interactively. Jacinta is recognized internationally for her insightful and experiential approach to teaching and managing conflict. She is known for her keen intelligence, engaging personality, and practical, non-judgmental approach to conflict. Her trainings are … [Read more...]
Dr. Honey Sheff Awarded the 2021 Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law
The Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law is given annually by Collaborative Divorce Texas to an exceptionally deserving CDT member who is substantially involved in collaborative practice, devoted fully to any task undertaken (often going above and beyond the call of duty), exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, and finally, is passionately committed to transforming the conflict resolution process. This year’s recipient of the Gay G. Cox Award for … [Read more...]
Spring Conference Wrap
Touted as The Best Seminar You Will Never Attend, the tongue-in-cheek promotion was spot on. Having attended IACP's Annual Forum in October, I was keenly aware that virtual collaborative conferences can still be intimate, connections can be made, and community shared. Texas Collaborative Professionals insured that 2021 Spring Conference was all that and a bag of (tortilla) chips more. The Course Directors, Planning Committee, presenters, CDT Board, State Bar and all responsible for the technical … [Read more...]
Looking Forward To Seeing You Tomorrow!
8:55 Welcoming Remarks - Kristen A. Algert, Austin, Goranson Bain Ausley 9:00 Projecting Empathy in the Zoom Room - Michael Erickson, LPC, Houston, Erickson Counseling and Mediation; Ray Levy, Ph.D., Dallas, Ray Levy, Ph.D. & Associates; Carol Mapp, LCSW, Arlington, Carol Mapp & Associates 9:45 Neuroscience of Implicit Biases: Is It Affecting Your Professionalism? - Lisa Blackwood, MS MA LPC-S, LCDC, EMDR Certified Therapist, Austin, Austin Wellness We will be providing … [Read more...]
Annual CDT General Membership Meeting
On Friday, March 5, CDT will be holding its 3rd Annual General Membership Meeting in conjunction with the State Bar Collaborative Law Conference. Unlike the Conference which will be presented in a webinar-style format, the General Membership Meeting will be a live format meeting on Zoom from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. It will be a great opportunity to connect virtually with Collaborative friends from around the state and hear what CDT has been doing for you in the last year. Since the start of this … [Read more...]
COVID-19 and Its Impact on Foundational Changes to The Practice of Law and Service Professionals
The massive shifts in daily lives occurring in 2020 required lawyers and other service providers to rethink, reimagine and reengineer how they provided their services to their clients, interacted with other professionals, and fulfilled their obligations to their clients. Grace and understanding during the initial learning curve have given way to an expectation of competence. All of this has occurred when none of us know exactly what the future will bring as far as COVID-19 is concerned. We … [Read more...]
Make Diversity in Collaborative Practice Your New Year’s Resolution
Collaborative Divorce will only truly succeed if it is viewed as a process for everyone. Every sex, every ethnicity, every religion, every sexual orientation, every gender identification, and every economic group. Such applies to the professional who practice Collaborative Divorce. Our membership and leadership must reflect society. Unfortunately, and despite efforts such as pro bono projects, CDT and our clients lack diversity. Therefore, we must look deep within ourselves as … [Read more...]
14th Annual Collaborative Law Course (Spring Conference)
With the annual SBOT/CDT Collaborative Law Course less than seven weeks away, I began thinking about what the conference means to all of us and the significance of its commonly referred to name, “Spring Conference”. Spring is a season of new beginnings, and the collaborative divorce process contributes immeasurably to the way a family begins their new relationship. Collaborative Divorce helps each client transition to their “new beginning” in the most positive, transparent, respectful, and … [Read more...]
SAVE THE DATE: March 4 & 5, 2021 – 14th Annual Virtual Collaborative Conference
14th Annual Course - Collaborative Law: Building Better CollaborationCo-sponsored by Collaborative Divorce Texas and the Collaborative Law Section of the State Bar of Texas March 4 - 5, 2021 - Watch from your computer or mobile device!Thursday March 4 - 8:55 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.Friday March 5 - 7:30 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. More Info or Register Featured topics on the program: How to Project Empathy in the Zoom RoomHow to Stay off the Drama TriangleInteracting with Your Clients Effectively & … [Read more...]
Annual Networking and Educational Forum by IACP
This is a great year to attend your first (or twenty-first) Annual Networking and Educational Forum put on by the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. This year, it will be held virtually beginning on October 19th and ending on October 29th. Not only will the presentations be virtual so you save the cost of travel and lodging but registration is at a greatly reduced price. There are opportunities to earn additional continuing education credits without charge … [Read more...]
Collaborative Divorce Basic Training in November
Covid-19 disrupted CDT’s schedule for training events earlier this year. As a result, CDT has been developing a Virtual Basic Interdisciplinary Training. The training will be held over parts of 4 days on November 12,13,19 and 20. Participants must attend ALL sessions to receive credit for the training. This training is for anyone wanting to learn or have a refresher course on the skills required to practice as a Collaborative professional. … [Read more...]
Meet New CDT Board Member Jennifer Leister
Name: Jennifer Leister Date and Place of Birth: September 1, 1975. Dallas, Texas Family: Married to Chris Leister and 2 children, Emma and Rhett Leister Education: Bachelor’s in Psychology from UTD and Master’s in Counseling from Amberton University. Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: 2007 (I think) I started practicing Collaboratively because: I believe in the process. I have spent the last 15 years providing therapy to families in high conflict situations, … [Read more...]
Bitcoin: What a Divorce Attorney Needs to Know
By Dorothy Haraminac Bitcoin has been around for over a decade. It has a value and can generate additional value in gains and forks (these are not your everyday silverware). It is a cryptocurrency, a type of digital asset, and was created by a group of privacy enthusiasts who worked together to build Bitcoin into what it is today, a set of all transactions linked together to form a digital ledger (known as bitcoin’s blockchain). There are over 1,700 other types of … [Read more...]
Virtual Basic Interdisciplinary Training
Thursday November 12th from 1:00-4:30 and Friday November 13th from 8:30-noon Thursday November 19th from 1:00-4:30andFriday November 20th for 8:30-noon Registration has ended TUITION:EARLY BIRD RATE: thru 10/30/2020 at 5PM: Member $149, non-member $199 and, law students $25.andREGULAR RATE: 10/31/2020 until November 5th at 5PM: Member $199, non-member $249 and, law students $30. Registration closes 11/5/2020 at 5PM *Member rates apply to Collaborative Divorce Texas members ONLY … [Read more...]
Camille Milner Receives Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law
The Annual Gay G. Cox Award for Excellence in Collaborative Law has been presented to Denton Collaborative Attorney Camille Milner. The award was announced at the Collaborative Law Conference in Austin and is normally presented at the State Bar’s Annual Advanced Family Law Seminar in August each year. The COVID-19 Pandemic forced that seminar online this year. Camille Milner is being honored for her contributions to the Collaborative Divorce movement in Texas. Milner … [Read more...]
Credentialing 2020 Updates
Collaborative Divorce Texas established the requirements for its members to become credentialed in 2017 with an Inaugural Class of nineteen attorneys, two financial professionals and six mental health professionals. Since that time, seventeen more Collaborative Divorce Texas members have been credentialed. With the accomplishment of qualifying to be a Credentialed Collaborative Professional or a Master Credentialed Collaborative Professional, our members are able to distinguish … [Read more...]
Divorce, Oil and Gas, and COVID-19
In any Divorce, involving “Oil and Gas”, the professional needs to be aware of the “special circumstances” that are present. If the oil and gas issue is present in the divorce due to one of the parties having mineral interests, there are tracing, depletion and reimbursement claims that will need to be considered. However, if the Oil and gas issue is present in the divorce due to one of the parties owning or in management of an Oil and Gas company, the moving parts that are present with the … [Read more...]
Best Practices for Video Conferencing
By Carol Mapp, LCSW and Honey Sheff, PhD In the age of COVID-19 and mandated social distancing, collaborative professionals are finding ways to reach out to their clients and conduct collaborative meetings in different locations. There are numerous video platforms such as Zoom, WebEx, and GoToMeeting that provide live two-way interaction between collaborative teams and their divorcing clients. The use of video conferencing has certain challenges that must be considered before … [Read more...]
May Day, the May Pole, Collaborative Divorce, and COVID-19
Blog by Jack H. Emmott When I was age 10 and attending fourth-grade elementary school, there was a school production to celebrate May Day. All of the students and teachers coordinated this large festival production of singing, dancing, and wrapping streamers around the tall May Pole. The event was big. But, being in a wheelchair, I felt very small. Very useless and insignificant. I was rather out of place and uncomfortable. That is because what could I really contribute to the … [Read more...]
Time to Get Ready for our Monumental Moment: An Ironic Gift Given to us by the Coronavirus
I recently came across an article that had a title that caught my attention, “Time to Tend to Our Souls: Coronavirus May Allow Us to Address the Distractions that Separate Us from Each Other [and from God],” but when I checked the author and found out that he was from a more conservative denomination and theology than I subscribe to, I sat it aside, thinking I would try to get back to it when I had time. A couple of times, in cleaning up my piles of newspapers, I almost threw it away without … [Read more...]
2020 CARES Act Payments And Divorce
In March 2020, Congress passed a $2 trillion stimulus bill called the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act to help Americans financially survive social distancing. The CARES Act provides direct payments of $1,200 for every adult and $500 for every child to individuals earning below $75,000 (for a household, the payments are $2,400 for a married couple and $500 for each child to couples earning less than $150,000). For individuals or couples who earn above the … [Read more...]
Treasurers Report
The Treasurers Report is one that speaks to ambition. I would like to say that we have a known source of inflows that are, not only sufficient to meet the operating needs of the organization, but also always available to further the Collaborative process. However, I cannot say this without pointing out the challenges in locating potential sources of income. The committed professionals, on the Board and other contributing members, have currently been able to achieve thought-out objectives, … [Read more...]
An Inconvenient Truth: What the legal system tells us about children and divorce
At last year’s State Bar of Texas Collaborative Law Course, Jennifer Leister and Carie Silvestri presented “#Truth: Children speak the truth about divorce.” Building off that presentation, Carie and Jennifer and a committee of collaborative professionals from throughout the state, including Dr Honey Sheff, Melinda Eitzen, JD, Curtis Harrison, JD, and Mickey Gaylor, JD, interviewed judges, custody evaluators, amicus attorneys, guardians ad litem, and collaborative MHPs about the effects of … [Read more...]
12th Annual Collaborative Law “Spring Conference”
The 12th Annual Collaborative Law “Spring Conference” is just a few weeks away! This year’s course “Collaborative Law: Avoiding Breaking Bad When Breaking Up” is co-sponsored by Collaborative Divorce Texas and the Collaborative Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. The focus of this year’s course is tackling difficulties in Collaborative Practice: difficult cases, difficult parties, difficult issues, and difficulties in growing your Collaborative business. Amy Lambert is this year’s … [Read more...]
Why Be A Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas?
Your membership in Collaborative Divorce Texas is important. It is important to you. It is important to your clients. It is important to the greater legal community. And it takes pioneers like you to renew your membership each year and increase the benefit of this growing movement to all of us. Why It’s Important to You Not to sound self-aggrandizing, but Collaborative Divorce Texas has become a leader in our nation and around the world for the promotion of Collaborative Divorce when … [Read more...]
Practice Tip: Just What Was I Thinking When I Put This Team Together?
Two things immediately come to mind when I am being interviewed by a prospective collaborative client: First, how do we get the other spouse to agree to use the collaborative process ; and Second, I hope I know the other lawyer. This is entirely because assembling a collaborative team is always so much easier when the other lawyer is something of a known quantity. It makes the initial evaluation and communication period, that time prior to the signing of the Collaborative Agreement, so much … [Read more...]
“The Sweet Spot,” by Christine Carter, Ph.D. – A Book Review by Camille Milner
Remember that quote: “If you love your work, you’ll never work a day in your life.” Confucius, Mark Antony and Mark Twain have all been given credit for this quote in slightly different forms. I have even quoted it when I am feeling really happy in what I am doing. But REALLY—we all know that even if we LOVE our work, too often it still seems like work, except for those rare special times… I know you have felt it—that feeling that you have when you are doing something that you love so much … [Read more...]
The Importance of Team Aptitude
After the collaborative professional team is formed, important questions arise such as: “What can we accomplish together?” “How can we best meet the needs of this divorcing family?” It is easier to answer these questions if team members focus on acknowledging, understanding, and honoring the abilities or aptitudes of others. The Johnson O’Connor foundation has studied human behavior and how individuals interact with others and have been a pioneer in the area of aptitude. Aptitude is defined … [Read more...]
Stretching The Collaborative Message
More than 50,000 people visited the Collaborative Divorce Texas website over the past 12 months. Many of those visitors entered the website as a direct result of CDT’s blogging and social media (Facebook) campaigns. To give you an idea of the impact of CDT’s campaigns, the annual website traffic prior to the institution of these campaigns was 15,000 to 20,000 visits to the site. Due to budget limitations, CDT cannot afford a continuous statewide Facebook campaign. CDT’s current Facebook … [Read more...]
Meet Board Member David S. Bouschor II
Name: David S. Bouschor II Date and Place of Birth: 10/10/1957, St. Paul, MN Family: Hominidae Education: Bachelor of Science in Geology from University of Wisconsin Superior Juris Doctorate from Southern Methodist University (SMU) Firm Name: The Law Office of David S. Bouschor II, P.C. Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: March 2016 I started practicing collaboratively because: Stew Webb was coming to town, and he was a Minnesota boy, so I figured I would look into it. What I … [Read more...]
Lessons from Hurricane Katrina following Harvey’s Impact from Madeleine Landrieu
The Dean of the Loyola College of Law in New Orleans, Madeleine Landrieu, last week sent out this message to the Loyola Alumni and friends recalling assistance that came to New Orleans from the Texas legal community following Hurricane Katrina. As you may recall, in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina and the levee failures in New Orleans, the University of Houston and its Law Center opened their arms and classrooms to our students and faculty, allowing us to preserve that academic semester. … [Read more...]
Chris Farish to become New President of IACP
In October, our very own Chris Farish from Quaid Farish in Dallas will take the reins as the new President of the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP). Chris’s term as President will begin immediately after the annual IACP Forum in Philadelphia October 12-15 concludes. Chris recently talked about his upcoming year heading up the IACP. What does it mean for you to become the new president of IACP? Honestly, it's a tremendous honor. The IACP means a great deal … [Read more...]
CDT Credentialing Deadline Extended to Sept 28th due to Hurricane Harvey
Due the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey on our community, Collaborative Divorce Texas is extending the deadline for members to submit their applications for credentialing to Thursday, September 28, 2017. This deadline extension applies to all members across the state. CDT will accept credentialing applications that are either (1) hand-delivered to the Collaborative Divorce Texas office by 5:00 p.m. on September 28, 2017 or (2) postmarked no later than September 28, 2017. Applications … [Read more...]
Important Information about the CDT Credentialing Process and Your Application
Applications for the Collaborative Divorce Texas 2018 Master Credentialed and Credentialed Collaborative Professional class are due August 31, 2017. The application, requirements and FAQs/Instructions are all found on the CDT website under the Credentialing Tab on the Member’s site. The new class of Master Credentialed and Credentialed Collaborative Professionals will be announced at the Collaborative Law Course in March 2018. Achievement of this designation demonstrates a commitment to the … [Read more...]
Meet New CDT Board Member Julie Quaid
Name: Julie Head Quaid Date and Place of Birth: February 22, 1958 in Waxahachie, Texas Family: Husband-Chuck Quaid; Son and Daughter in law-Christopher and Erin Farish; Daughter-Alex Quaid; and Grandson-Carson Farish Education: BA –Austin College 1978; JD – Southern Methodist University School of Law 1981 Firm Name: Quaid Farish, LLC Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: 2004 I started practicing Collaboratively because: As a family lawyer, I saw families being destroyed by … [Read more...]
Kevin Fuller Presented with Gay S. Cox Award
The Annual Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award was presented at the 43rd Advanced Family Law Seminar in San Antonio this year on August 7, 2017. Dallas attorney, mediator and collaborative professional Kevin Fuller was honored with the award which recognizes contributions to the collaborative movement in Texas. Fuller was given the award for his leadership role in Collaborative Divorce Texas and for his commitment to peaceful conflict resolution. Fuller’s annual presentation at the close of … [Read more...]
Important Information about the CDT Credentialing Process and Your Application
Applications for the Collaborative Divorce Texas 2018 Master Credentialed and Credentialed Collaborative Professional class are due August 31, 2017. The application, requirements and FAQs/Instructions are all found on the CDT website under the Credentialing Tab on the Member’s site. The new class of Master Credentialed and Credentialed Collaborative Professionals will be announced at the Collaborative Law Course in March 2018. Achievement of this designation demonstrates a commitment to the … [Read more...]
What constitutes Leadership and Service for the Master Credentialed Collaborative Professional application?
Leadership and service are based upon an applicant’s contributions to the collaborative community over the course of his/her career prior to application. It is not possible to quantify this requirement. The Credentialing Committee is looking for significant service, dedication and leadership by the applicant, which in most instances will require leadership and service in more than one activity. Leadership and significant service improves the quality of the collaborative community, whether it … [Read more...]
Tips for Completing the Training and Education Section of the CDT Credentialing Application
Tips for Completing the Training and Education Section of the CDT Credentialing Application Although the requirements and application process for CDT Credentialing are demanding, they are objective. If you meet the requirements, you will be credentialed. The Credentialing Committee asks that you be diligent in completing your application. Read the Requirements, Application and FAQs/Instructions carefully before submitting your application. Due to the painstaking review of each application, … [Read more...]
Tips for Completing your Collaborative Divorce Texas Credentialing Application
Although the requirements and application process for CDT Credentialing are demanding, they are objective. If you meet the requirements, you will be credentialed. The Credentialing Committee asks that you be diligent in completing your application. Read the Requirements, Application and FAQs/Instructions carefully before submitting your application. Due to the painstaking review of each application, the Credentialing Committee asks that you do not apply until you meet the criteria or your … [Read more...]
Has being credentialed helped my collaborative business?
Since becoming a Master Credential collaborative lawyer in March, my collaborative business has definitely increased. For whatever reason—knowledge of the collaborative option; couples seeking to avoid the cost, financial and otherwise, of litigation—I see more clients aware of and open to collaboration than ever before. Several have pointed to my credential as a distinguishing factor in their choice to employ me and my firm. Simply put, the credential matters. The impact of … [Read more...]
Overcoming the Fear of Blogging
The word “Blog” strikes fear into the heart of many potential bloggers because they don’t know what a blog is or how write one. Yet, one of the most effective tools for driving website traffic is to blog on a consistent basis. To alleviate some of that fear it is important to know that a blog is simply a short article about a subject that your potential client has questions or an interest in-- questions that many of you probably answer on a daily basis. The second point of how to blog … [Read more...]
Meet Board Member Mickey Gayler
Name: Mickey Gayler Date and Place of Birth: 1/31/54 - Phoenix, Arizona Family: Married, 2 children, 1 grandchild Education: A.B., Occidental College, 1975 Master of Clowning, Ringling Bros. Clown College J.D., Vanderbilt Law School, 1989 Firm Name: Law Office of Michael L. Gayler, PLLC Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: 2008 I started practicing Collaboratively because: It just made too much sense not to. What I like best about this job: Not having to do much by the Rules … [Read more...]
Meet Lonnie J. Broussard, CFP CDFA – Presenter for Advanced Training June 23
Lonnie is a Navy Veteran who has served the Hampton Roads area of Virginia as an investment advisor since 1986. He is transitioning to Virginia Financial Planning in preparation for retirement. Lonnie is a Registered Representative with United Planner’s Financial Services of America and serves individual and small business clients in Financial Planning, Retirement Planning, and Portfolio Management. He also works as a neutral financial professional in Collaborative Divorce and as a Divorce … [Read more...]
Meet Barbara A. Burr, J.D. – Presenter for Advanced Training June 23
Barbara specializes in family matters. After several years in litigation practice, she received training in Collaborative Law in 2006 and has been building a collaborative practice since. She has conducted several trainings in collaborative law, including Basic Collaborative Practice, Mediation, and Interest-Based Negotiation. In 2010, Barbara and three other collaborative professionals opened the Collaborative Practice Center of Greater Washington to change the way people resolve disputes. She … [Read more...]
About Lisa Herrick, Ph.D. – Presenter for Advanced Training June 23
Lisa is a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, families, and couples. Her practice is focused on helping families improve their relationships, and when necessary navigating separation and divorce. Lisa is a Collaborative Coach and Child Specialist and has completed more than 140 collaborative cases. She has trained collaborative professionals throughout the U.S. and has co-authored Navigating Emotional Currents in Collaborative Divorce, A Guide for Enlightened Team Practice, … [Read more...]
President’s Letter June 2017
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit." - Aristotle What is the most important factor in branding Collaborative Divorce? Bottom line, a positive client experience is key to creating and maintaining a strong brand for Collaborative Divorce. No matter how much CDT markets to and educates the public, clients must have good experiences with Collaborative Divorce for it to grow and thrive. And that job rests solely with you. What determines whether a … [Read more...]
Factors Associated with Collaborative Divorce Costs
The purpose of our study was to discover which client traits, case factors and process characteristics are significantly associated with increased settlement costs. This information can help attorneys manage client’s expectations, minimize disruptions to the collaborative process, and provide a more positive collaborative divorce experience for clients. Assessing Case and Client Characteristics It’s relatively easy for attorneys to discern if there are complex financial issues involved in a … [Read more...]
Meet Board Member Cindi Graham
Name: Cindi Barela Graham Date and Place of Birth: 2/11/64 Washington, D.C. Family: Perry=hubby; Jennifer=daughter (32); Lex=son (30) & wife Bennet; Joey=son (28) & wife Devenie. Education: Texas Tech University, 1986; University of Texas School of Law, 1990 Firm Name: Law Office of Cynthia Barela Graham Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: Maybe 2010? I started practicing Collaboratively because: I am tired of fighting and destroying families and I want to … [Read more...]
Email Marketing: A Great Tool for Getting New Cases
Many of the previous articles in this newsletter have focused on the social media campaign that Collaborative Divorce Texas has been running to build awareness of collaborative divorce. This article will focus on another aspect of driving new business and new cases. Email Marketing is one of the most consistent tools for delivering a ROI on your time and money. This type of marketing is not aimed at potential clients but is instead aimed at referral sources. Email marketing works because your … [Read more...]
Meet Board Member Mike Benaglio
Name: Michael Benaglio (Mike) Date and Place of Birth: August 14, 1959, San Manuel, Arizona Family: Married 36 years to Debbie Benaglio, Two boys - Cal Benaglio and his wife Kassi, their two kids Caden 4½ and Ella 3; Race Benaglio and his wife Caitlin. Education: University of Arizona Accounting Major Firm Name: The Benaglio Group, LLC Member of Collaborative Divorce Texas since: April 14, 2007 I started practicing Collaboratively because: I believe the family has a better … [Read more...]
Effective Client Screening in the Collaborative Process
As collaborative practitioners we recognize and value the utility of utilizing the collaborative approach to divorce with our clients. While this approach offers many advantages, not all clients may be appropriate for this process. Some clients arrive at this difficult time in their lives with a variety of psychosocial and psychological issues such as active substance abuse, significant depression or anxiety, history of anger and high conflict, or with pre-existing maladaptive personality traits … [Read more...]
CDT Website + Credentialing = New Case
How can we get more collaborative cases? This is by far the most important question for collaborative practitioners around the state. We love what we do and want to bring this revolutionary divorce process to more families who need it. But, how to do this? The leadership of Collaborative Divorce Texas determined that we should have an updated website, marketing plan, and a credentialing program to distinguish the collaborative professionals who are experienced and dedicated to our … [Read more...]
Checklist for Leveraging Collaborative Divorce Marketing into Your Practice
Efforts to build the brand of Collaborative Divorce Texas continue to pay dividends as more professionals continue to report that they are having more people come in asking for their case to be handled collaboratively. Elsewhere in this newsletter, you will find a letter from Kim Munsinger reporting on a new case that came to her because of the Collaborative Divorce Texas website and her newly minted status as a credentialed professional. What can you do to make sure that you are taking full … [Read more...]
Hello from Your MHP
It has become increasingly common for the Mental Health Professional (MHP) on teams to meet with clients prior to the initial joint meeting. This practice initially began as a mechanism for assessing client fit for the collaborative process, typically when one, or both, of the attorneys had some concerns about the appropriateness of the clients for the process. However, while the value of such screening meetings is clear, over time this practice has expanded beyond its initial purpose and has … [Read more...]
Challenges for the Stay-at-Home Parent Facing Divorce
Due to many factors, such as increasing child care costs, philosophical resolve, or stress of managing home and life, many couples make a conscious decision at some point in their marriage to have only one parent work outside the home. When parents make the decision to divorce, one of the many difficult aspects to consider occurs when one parent is displaced as he or she has not worked in the labor force for a substantial number of years but worked in the home providing unpaid services for … [Read more...]
Marketing 101 #DivorceDifferently
This year's Spring Conference featured a lot of great news about the growth of collaborative in Texas over the past year. It also featured the launch of a new initiative to use #DivorceDifferently in social media posts related to Collaborative Divorce in Texas. But for many people any discussion of using hashtags might as well be in a foreign language. So, what is this hashtag (#) and why should anyone care? Let start with what is a hashtag? A hashtag is the pound or number sign. The use … [Read more...]
Financial Report – December 2016
We are currently moving along with our marketing campaigns which are showing early signs of success. This has been a group effort, with the emphasis on spreading the Collaborative Divorce message. Financially, funds to make this happen primarily are a result of the dues from membership. Unless membership is running at over 300, most likely we are pulling from precious reserves. Currently, membership is averaging 275. I often hear from professionals with an interest in the Collaborative … [Read more...]
2016 – Year in Review
2016 has been an incredible year of change for Collaborative Divorce in Texas. This year of change was designed to re-energize the movement in Texas and to move toward the goal of Collaborative Divorce becoming the preferred method of divorce in Texas. It has been a challenging and exhausting year for all of you and particularly your Board of Directors but thankfully, all our collective efforts are starting to show signs of bearing fruit. Here are 8 major changes that took place in 2016. #1 … [Read more...]
How Does this Facebook Campaign Work?
It is not uncommon with a lot of collaborative professionals that we hear, “I am not on Facebook, so I don’t get it.” So how does it work and how do you leverage the statewide Collaborate Divorce Texas Facebook initiative into your practice? Collaborative Divorce Texas (CDT) is running Facebook marketing campaigns in major cities around the state each month. (A list of the upcoming cities is at the end of this article) These campaigns target two demographic segments. The first is 30 to 50 … [Read more...]
Building the Collaborative Divorce Brand… So How Are We Doing?
At Spring Conference in February, we announced that CLI-TX was changing its name to Collaborative Divorce Texas. The plain and simple reason was to speak the language of potential divorce clients who didn’t think that collaborative law was for them because it didn’t say divorce. Since that time, Collaborative Divorce Texas has launched a new website, developed a social media strategy and started spreading the collaborative gospel around the state. So how are we doing? Web site growth has been … [Read more...]
Marketing Report November 2016
1) Web Traffic August Web Traffic increased 103% over 2015 visitors September Web Traffic increased 60% over 2015. 3,414 visitors to the new sites and the old site October Web Traffic increased 65% over 2015 3,732 visitors Web Traffic totals 2nd and 3rd quarter - 22,557 visitors 2) Social Media Campaign September Campaign in San Antonio increased web traffic from San Antonio by 260% vs August traffic October Campaign in Houston increased web traffic from Houston by … [Read more...]
The Importance of Gratitude in Your Practice
November is the month of Thanksgiving, where many of us reflect on what we are grateful for. If you haven’t considered the value of gratitude in the collaborative process, I encourage you to give it some thought. Gratitude is infectious, motivates others, and strengthens team relationships. An environment full of gratitude encourages team members and clients alike to give their best. Gratitude is a core of principle needed for team effectiveness and growth of the collaborative movement. Many … [Read more...]
Spring Conference Keynote Speaker Dr. Donna Hicks
Dr. Donna Hicks is one of our keynote speakers at the Spring CDT Conference. She is based at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University. Donna has successfully applied her dignity model on a global stage. Her clients include the World Bank, the United Nations, the US Navy, a major US legacy airline, and governments worldwide. She currently helps leaders in business, health care, government, education and other fields create cultures that foster innovation and … [Read more...]
Filled Out Your Profile Yet? You Might Be Missing Out!
Among the many benefits of membership in Collaborative Divorce Texas is your member profile on the Collaborative Divorce Texas Website. Visitors to the site looking to hire a collaborative professional can search by city or county to locate a professional near them. But an important question is: Have you completely filled out your profile.? If you have not, and some members still haven’t, then you may be missing out on leads for collaborative cases in your own backyard. Last month, we … [Read more...]
Guiding Parents on When NOT to Tell Their Children about Divorce
One of the most difficult challenges facing parents who are planning to divorce is what to tell their children. While indeed this is perhaps the most painful conversation that parents will ever have, a frequently overlooked dynamic is the timing of this discussion. As a lawyer or mental health professional, you are often one of the first people in a position to guide your clients in not only what to say, but when to say it. You need to help your client see this experience from their child’s … [Read more...]
Help Us Make Collaborative the Preferred Method of Divorce in Texas
You are Essential! Your membership in Collaborative Divorce Texas matters. CDT’s goal is for collaborative divorce to become the preferred method of divorce in Texas. Now there are a lot of folks out there who roll their eyes at this goal. But in his book “Good to Great,” Jim Collins suggests that to become great you have to set Big Hairy Audacious Goals (BHAGs) to stimulate progress. According to Collins, “A BHAG is a huge and daunting goal.” A goal that is clear and compelling, and … [Read more...]
Building the Divorce Differently Collaborative Brand with Facebook
One of the goals of Collaborative Divorce Texas is to help its members get more collaborative cases. To do this, we are building the brand that you can divorce differently through the collaborative divorce process. The goal is to reach potential new divorce clients and get information in front of them early in the decision making process about collaborative. What can you do as a member of Collaborative Divorce Texas to help spread the word and get more collaborative cases? (After all you … [Read more...]
Chacon Contributes Collaborative Divorce Chapter in “Divorce: Taking the High Road”
Kurt Chacon, founder of Divorce Differently, teamed with 10 top certified divorce coaches to write a book providing simple strategies leading to sound decision making and the best choices regarding a healthy divorce. In Divorce: Taking the High Road, Chacon's chapter, "Collaborative Divorce - The Biggest Secret for Access to the High Road in Divorce", speaks to spouses concerned about possible conflict and strife which can accompany a litigated divorce. He offers collaborative divorce as a … [Read more...]
How to Build a Better Mousetrap to Grow Your Collaborative Business
A number of years ago, when I was returning home from vacation, I wrote a Letter from the Editor for you about “The E-Myth Revisited” book and what its wisdom contained for Collaborative Divorce practice. In this past year and a half, we have begun focusing more of our attention on marketing our work so that more people can know about it and enjoy the attributes that it brings. As we have done that, I return once again to “The E-Myth Revisited,” but with a different emphasis. In this book, … [Read more...]
Keywords for Marketing Collaborative Divorce
At the Spring Conference, we discussed the importance of speaking the same language as potential clients. One of the key reasons for changing the name of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas to Collaborative Divorce Texas was to speak the right language. That is, the language of search on the Internet. No one was searching the term "collaborative law" because no one knew what that meant. But people do search for the term divorce and new branding opportunities opened up by tying … [Read more...]
Where is Your Divorce Client on the Credibility Spectrum?
Attorneys need credible divorce clients. Clients who deal not with the story of divorce, but rather the business of divorce. Clients who ask relevant questions and possess sound communication skills. Clients who have reasonable expectations of the court system. This is what is termed the “business” of divorce. In addition, clients need to recognize the process they likely chose is judicially centered and not client centered. And, when called for information, it must be provided as soon as … [Read more...]
The Farmer’s Market[ing]
The business of marketing divorce sometimes ignores the client’s multitude of needs. And, the divorce marketplace can at times be incomplete and inefficient. Dr. Deborah Lyons, a collaborative divorce MHP, reflects upon the divorce services marketplace and how professionals market those services. Dr. Lyons suggests the Collaborative Divorce model and New Ways for Families program as viable solutions that address these shortcomings in the divorce-as-usual scenario. Lately I’ve found myself at … [Read more...]
Credentialing Deadline Approaches
Distinguish yourself. The deadline to apply to be considered for credentialing this year is August 31, 2016. The Requirements Chart and an updated set of FAQs are on the member side of the website. CDT ‘s goal is to make collaborative divorce the preferred method of divorce in Texas. How does credentialing support this goal? To become the preferred method of divorce, the public has to know what collaborative divorce is, why it is the preferred method, and how to get it, and ultimately, … [Read more...]
Reflections on Plaques
About twice a week, I receive an email telling me that I’m on some list of "top" or "best" or "most outstanding" lawyers in (choose one) Houston/Texas/the United States/the Universe. Coincidentally, every one of these emails informs me that I am now eligible to purchase one of their beautiful (and expensive) plaques to hang on my wall to let the world (and my clients) know how incredibly outstanding I am. Now I am sure that there must be some legitimate organization that actually make an … [Read more...]
What is your website saying about your practice?
Your website is crucial to advertising your practice. In today's world of Google searches and Yelp reviews, the Internet is where people turn to research options for any goods or services they're considering. Even those who might learn about your practice through professional referrals or word-of-mouth advertising will most certainly turn to your website to learn more about you. Many will make judgments about your business based on how the website looks, what information is on the site, and … [Read more...]
Collaborative Divorce Texas – The New Frontier
Texas has long been a leader and one of the most innovative jurisdictions in the Collaborative Law movement. We embraced the collaborative process with passion and educated and trained our lawyers, mental health professionals and financial professionals in the art of Collaborative Law. We developed and honed the team model to exacting standards that are the envy of collaborative professionals worldwide. Nevertheless, there remained one critical piece to the puzzle: knowledgeable consumers. … [Read more...]
Star-Telegram highlights our new credentials for collaborative professionals
We were thrilled to receive coverage from the Fort-Worth Star Telegram around the official change of our organization's name to Collaborative Divorce Texas. In the article, columnist Teresa McUsic provided an insightful overview to collaborative divorce. She covers a lot of the basics, shows its room for growth in Texas, and has some great quotes from experts that help highlight its advantages over traditional divorce. As Plano-based family lawyer (and past Collaborative Divorce Texas … [Read more...]
New website for newly-rebranded Collaborative Divorce Texas is live
Today, the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas announced at its annual statewide conference that it is changing its name to Collaborative Divorce Texas, effective immediately. The organization has launched a new website, at collaborativedivorcetexas.com, to feature resources for Texas couples looking for a less destructive alternative to traditional courtroom divorce. The non-profit organization, one of the first of its kind in the nation, was founded in 2003 by lawyers, mental health … [Read more...]
A Guide to Blogging
(for Collaborative Divorce Texas, and for your own practice) By Phil West This blogging overview covers the nuts and bolts of blogging, shows how we can help you contribute to the Collaborative Divorce Texas blog (a service included as part of your annual membership to the organization), and how to get started with us. First, what blogging does for you, in four bullet points It gets your ideas out to a vast audience (as well as a specific audience searching for the things you’re … [Read more...]
Linda Solomon Wins 2015 Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award
The Collaborative Law Institute of Texashas awarded its 3rd annual Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award to Linda Solomon, a Dallas-based mental health professional, collaborative law proponent, and collaborative professional trainer. “I am honored beyond words to have been chosen for this award,” Solomon said, “Gay, as a human being, embodied the collaborative spirit and that makes this award much more meaningful for me. I feel very lucky and blessed to have been in the right place at the … [Read more...]
2015 Texas Legislative Update – Highlights for Collaborative Lawyers
This blog article is from Angela Pence England and Harry Tindall, partners at Tindall England, PC, a Houston-based law firm specializing in matrimonial and family law. The 2015 Texas Legislative session has come to an end, and while no legislative changes were made to expand collaborative law, there were a record number of changes to the Texas Family Code. Most changes occurred in Title 5 (Parent-Child Relationship) but several changes were also made to Titles 1, 2, and 4. Title 1 … [Read more...]
Jack Emmott and Norma Trusch Receive Awards from Houston Volunteer Lawyers
Norma Trusch and Jack Emmott, two Houston-based family lawyers, Collaborative Law Institute of Texas past and present board members, and collaborative proponents who have spearheaded efforts to bring pro bono collaborative law services to a wider range of Houstonians seeking divorces, were honored this week with the Trailblazer Award from Houston Volunteer Lawyers for their work. This past November, Trusch led the initial training session for Houston Volunteer Lawyers members willing to help … [Read more...]
Sharing (and Singing) a Story of Collaborative Law Success
This article is written by S. Camille Milner, a Denton-based collaborative lawyer and the current Vice-President of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas’ board. At the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas and State Bar of Texas Collaborative Course in Austin earlier this month, the keynote speaker was Barbara McAfee, who is a vocal presence coach and songwriter, and the author of “Full Voice: The Art and Practice of Vocal Presence.” Barbara went through a divorce about ten years ago in … [Read more...]
How Collaborative Law in Texas is Growing Up (and Getting Past its Growing Pains)
This article is from Kevin Fuller, founder of Dallas-based Fuller Mediations, a firm that provides a range of mediation services to settle divorces and other disputes, and a former president of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas. In the last two and a half decades, we have taken Stu Webb’s simple concept of a better way to divorce -- a concept called collaborative divorce -- and wrapped it in all kinds of rules, processes and procedures. We added mental health professionals and … [Read more...]
Preparing for More Difficult Collaborative Cases: What I Learned at the IACP Conference
This article was written by Dr. Honey Sheff, a Dallas-based mental health professional and a board member of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas. I've recently returned from four days in Vancouver, Canada, where I attended the Annual Forum for IACP (the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals), and I've since have had time to process that experience, and the value that being part of the annual conference has added to my professional life. I am fortunate to have attended … [Read more...]
Harry Tindall Wins 2014 Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award
The Collaborative Law Institute of Texas has awarded its 2nd ever Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award to Harry Tindall, the Houston-based lawyer and longtime collaborative law advocate, who helped lead lobbying efforts to make Texas the first state to adopt a collaborative law statute. The award is the latest honor for Tindall, who began practicing law in 1967, founded his law firm Tindall & Foster, P.C. (now Tindall & England, P.C.) in 1973, and received his board … [Read more...]
Norma Trusch Becomes First Recipient of Gay G. Cox Award
The Collaborative Law Institute of Texas announced earlier this month that Houston lawyer, educator, and longtime collaborative law advocate Norma Levine Trusch has been named the recipient of the first-ever Gay G. Cox Collaborative Law Award to honor the memory of the late Dallas lawyer. The award, first announced at the State Bar of Texas’ Advanced Family Law Conference earlier this month, was established to honor a lawyer, financial professional, or mental health professional who is: a … [Read more...]
How Far We’ve Come! (An MHP Looks Back at Her Path to Collaborative Law)
This blog post is from Syd Sharples, LCSW, an Austin-based Mental Health Professional (MHP) and therapist in Austin. She sits on the Board of the Collaborative Law Institute of Texas. It was 2005, and there I was, sitting in the jury box at the Travis County courthouse. In my ongoing efforts to develop my private therapy practice and identify referral sources in the legal community, I’d come across an attorney who was eager to recruit me to a new kind of divorce process. Would I come to a … [Read more...]
