Approach

Navigating family transitions – whether it’s the end of a marriage, a change in parental arrangements, or the formation of a new family structure – can feel overwhelming. The decisions you make during these times will impact your life for years to come, and that’s where I come in. As a mediator and a collaborative attorney, my goal is to provide you with the clarity and support you need to make informed decisions while minimizing stress and conflict.

I understand that every person and every case is unique, which is why I take the time to truly listen to your story, your needs, and your hopes for the future. My approach combines compassion with practical legal guidance to help you navigate the complexities of divorce, child custody, property division, and other family matters. Whether you’re ending a relationship, navigating coparenting, or planning for the future with a prenuptial agreement, I will work closely with you to create sustainable solutions that serve you and your loved ones in the long term. For some, this means crafting a solution that allows both parties to part ways amicably, without the need for lengthy litigation. For others, when children are involved, it means negotiating fair and thoughtful arrangements that support co-parenting for years to come.

As an attorney, I now exclusively practice collaborative law. The collaborative model allows clients to work together outside the courtroom, with the aid of a professional support team, to create customized agreements that work for all parties. After years working in litigation, I find the collaborative model to be much more respectful, personalized, and supportive.

In my mediation practice, I often work within the collaborative law model as well. For those seeking a more streamlined, self-directed approach, though, I offer flexible mediation services, guiding clients through the process with minimal attorney involvement if that is their preference, while still ensuring legal safeguards are in place.

My philosophy is rooted in communication, compassion, and civility. Divorce and family law matters can (and almost assuredly will) be stressful, but my goal as a mediator and an attorney is to mitigate that stress for my clients. I’m here to guide my clients through the process with a calm, solution-oriented mindset, always keeping your long-term well-being in mind.

If you’re ready to explore the options that might be right for you, I would love to meet and discuss how I can help you.

Collaborative Law: Collaborative law offers a thoughtful and respectful approach for couples who wish to resolve their differences without resorting to the court system. In this process, both parties, supported by a team of specialists—including attorneys, financial experts, and mental health professionals—work together to develop solutions that are mutually beneficial. The goal is to foster open communication and creative problem-solving, allowing both sides to retain control over the outcome. This approach is particularly effective for those who want to preserve relationships and/or co-parent effectively after the process is complete. If you’re interested in learning more about how collaborative law could be the right fit for your situation, I would love to meet with you.

Mediation: Mediation is a great option for clients who feel comfortable making independent decisions and hope to avoid the potential acrimony of litigation. In this process, you and your spouse (or co-parent) work together in a neutral setting to reach agreements on key issues, such as property division and child custody. Some clients elect to hire counsel, some don’t. Others choose a hybrid option where their attorneys provide guidance behind the scenes, offering legal advice and preparing any necessary legal documents, but do not attend the sessions themselves. We can tailor mediation to your circumstances and preferences. Overall, mediation is a faster, more cost-effective way to resolve disputes, and it gives clients more control over the outcome. If you’re interested in exploring whether mediation is the right option for your case, I’d be happy to discuss how the process works in more detail.

You can contact Monica directly at Monica@seattledivorceservices.com.

“But for all her skill as an attorney it was often her contagious warmth and courage that I most greatly appreciated and relied upon in the face of a process that is often intimidatingly cold and procedural. She is an outstanding attorney. She is an extraordinary human being.” – Former client

“What I respect most about Monica’s approach to conflict (which, incidentally, is an approach that is consistent and dependable throughout every aspect of her life) is that she does not hesitate to walk through it with her eyes open to its realities and her hands open to the lessons it yields. The individuals that she coaches will harvest abundant benefits that will echo into every aspect of their own lives simply because she was there for them in a non-judgmental, kind, and strategically supportive manner. Monica is a rare and trustworthy combination because she can sharpen wits, soften hearts, and respect boundaries all at the same time. I cannot imagine a stronger ally in the darkness of divorce.” – Former colleague

“I have been working with Monica for a year now and am very pleased with her. She is very kind and caring. Also very prompt to answer my concerns.” – Former client