NEGOTIATION      LITIGATION

• Parties can work out solutions outside of the straightjacket of complex laws and regulations

• Parties can make their own decisions on the issues -- you control the outcome.  Assumes the parties, not the judges, know what will work best.

• Agreements likely to be more durable when relying on constructive useful solutions chosen by the parties.

• The parties come through the process with dignity and self-respect.

• The negotiation process is self-affirming.  Each party recognizes that he or she has done his or her best to work through a difficult transition in a constructive and productive fashion.

• The parties can preserve a respectful, working relationship with each other after resolution. For parties with children, such a future relationship is crucial for the children.

• The negotiation process is efficient and effective but demands a high level of emotional and mental energy.

• Negotiation is relatively less expensive.  It is less costly than litigation.

• Your private matters remain private.