There's no question that the changes in divorce law have accelerated in the last decade. More and more, our area of the law has come to resemble complex commercial litigation. And frankly, it is the kind of work in which a good lawyer makes a profound difference: A properly conducted valuation process separates the good lawyers from the rest of the pack. Every attorney faces similar challenges: You're simply irresponsible if you don't give realistic expectations to a client. A client will say "The kids are mine." And the fact is, that's not what a court -- or a settlement -- will necessarily provide for. That's a very difficult thing for some people to deal with. Good, experienced attorneys will also have a good sense of the costs and benefits underlying a case. After all, it makes no sense to spend 10 dollars to try to make five. One of the most significant developments is technology proliferation - and the effect is double-edged. The law requires a degree of calm, a deliberate, painstaking fact-gathering process. Technology has put tremendous new pressures on attorneys to move as quickly as possible, sometimes unreasonably. At the same time, technology has certainly made hiding assets more difficult - and that's a plus for attorneys and their clients.

The stresses of litigation are as great as ever - I am surprised, and a little disappointed, honestly, that people are as intent as ever to litigate their disputes, rather than seek a settlement. If anything, I think the amount of litigation has only increased. That all said, I've been very fortunate. Our area of the law has grown more interesting and challenging over the years.

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