My approach to family law cases is based on the principle of karma. This is based on the belief that what you throw at people comes right back at you. That is why you will never see me engage in mudslinging or name calling.

Many family law lawyers do not practice in accordance with the highest standards. In fact, some are absolutely dysfunctional. Nevertheless, you have to treat everyone with respect. My background in the martial arts has been very helpful in my career as it has helped me gain discipline and the ability to conduct myself respectfully in difficult situations.

Although I have a lot of courtroom experience, that’s not what anyone tries to get more of. In fact, the trend is away from litigation, even for litigators. When I started practicing, lawyers were proud to have a lot of trial experience. Now, it is common to hear litigators boast about seldom appearing in Court. The best litigators are those who can settle difficult cases at the earliest possible stage.

It is my policy to be polite to everyone, no matter how rude or unpleasant they may be. It is never helpful for the family law practitioner to be judgmental or lose his/her composure. On the other hand, it is important that you do not allow your client to be impacted by the inappropriate tactics of the other party or opposing counsel.

As my career has developed, my clients include some very well educated and affluent people, but it is important for me to keep a diverse client base.

In my 26 years of practicing family law I’ve never been involved in a fee arbitration or a malpractice suit with any client. It’s pretty simple: Be positive. Be nice. Don’t lie. Return calls quickly. More than anything we want clients to be satisfied with our work.

I practice throughout the Bay Area, but about half of my cases originate from Marin County, a venue well known for creative and evolved settlement programs. Still, with the greater affluence there’s often a sense of entitlement – about spousal support, about maintaining a high lifestyle. I first and foremost want to provide my clients with a realistic assessment of a case, and likely outcome.

I feel very fortunate. I love family law. I can’t wait to come to work every day.

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