It appears that the economy is definitely causing folks to consider mediation as opposed to an ugly and expensive court battle. Finally something positive about a lousy economy!! As we tell people all the time it makes better sense to sit with us around a conference table--sip some water or coffee(we make delicious coffee) and work through all those issues that can appear so intimidating at first.

We are finding that encouraging people to relax and talk--even raise their voices if need be--cry if it helps--does result in a catharsis of sorts. It is very encouraging to two people who truly believe in this process.

Hi--we've been quiet for a few weeks. We are busy which is a good thing. It appears that more and more people are beginning to see the value of Mediation as a resource for a negotiated divorce settlement.The majority of the people we are seeing have children under the age of 10 years. There is an appreciation among them that they will be attending Parent/Teacher meetings for years to come--dealing with the usual array of childhood traumas together and basically needing to be able to communicate. We can give them that tool and it is quite gratifying.

An additional plus is that they save much needed money in the present economy. Once they agree to try Mediation it is a sign that they want something better than what the adversarial process. There are tears and raised voices but we remind them of their initial commitment and are able to move forward. If divorce is to be part of your life we urge that you consider the Mediation process. We offer a free consult so there is nothing to lose!!!

-I have been attempting to demonstrate the difference between a negotiated settlement and an adversarial trial to resolve divorce and parenting issues. I would like to hear from folks who have survived the traditional court route as to whether or not that route improved your ability to communicate and parent your kids. I have many stories from children who have lived through their parents divorce. Let me hear from you. --------------------------------------------
Pamela Macktaz and Jean George create a unique team with over 70 years of combined Rhode Island Family Court experience. We successfully assist clients with divorce, case management, parenting plans, memorandums of understanding, and parent coordination in high conflict families.

For questions about this posting or any divorce questions CONTACT US at (401)942-3000 or visit our Divorce in Rhode Island website

Being a parent is a lifetime commitment

Being a parent is a lifetime commitment that does not end when the marriage ends. Learning to parent cooperatively is good for children as they have the right to love and be loved by both parents. There is never a need to compete for your child's affection and loyalty. Always remember your children have rights and their well-being should always be your top priority.

Separation and Divorce are difficult for children who may react differently depending on their ages. They are by and large resilient and studies reveal that most are their normal selves within two years of the event. Just keep a sharp eye out for any signs that are severe in nature and seek help from the mental health community.


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Pamela Macktaz and Jean George create a unique team with over 70 years of combined Rhode Island Family Court experience. We successfully assist clients with divorce, case management, parenting plans, memorandums of understanding, and parent coordination in high conflict families.

For questions about this posting or any divorce questions CONTACT US at (401)942-3000 or visit our Divorce in Rhode Island website

"A child of divorce will be better off if reared cooperatively by two parents who respect each other's parental role". The converse is unfortunately also true, "children whose parents seek to undermine each other's parental role cannot possibly be helped by such..and could be harmed emotionally".(note 1.) Each parent must give the other a chance to settle in to the new situation. Be polite when you speak to or about each other--your body language can speak volumes to a child....


Note 1. Legal and Mental Health Perspectives on Child Custody Law, pp. 78. West Group 1998.

Posted by Pam Macktaz and Jean George, RIDivorceMediation.com.



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Pamela Macktaz and Jean George create a unique team with over 70 years of combined Rhode Island Family Court experience. We successfully assist clients with divorce, case management, parenting plans, memorandums of understanding, and parent coordination in high conflict families.

For questions about this posting or any divorce questions CONTACT US at (401)942-3000 or visit our Divorce in Rhode Island website

Extramarital relationships add extra emotion to the dissolution-custody equation( as well post divorce sexual relationships may impact the issues of custody, access and parenting). One spouse's new relationship will produce doubts in the other about that spouses competence as a parent. The prospect of a new parent for one's children frightens most divorcing spouses. The emergence of a replacement parent usually produces concern and great animosity, even if both spouses have acquired new relationships.

Children, especially older children are often extremely disturbed about the breakup of their family. They may see a new love interest as the cause and exhibit powerful loyalties and support to the other parent(seen as the "wronged" parent) and rage at the wrongdoer. The spouses' lawyers are sometimes captured by the hostility. In mediation the process helps clients bring a humane end to the litigation--avoiding a battle that punishes them and their children.

Note: Excerpt from "LEGAL AND MENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES ON CHILD CUSTODY LAW" 1998 West Group (National Interdisciplinary Colloquium on Child Custody Law).

Posted by Pam Macktaz

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Pamela Macktaz and Jean George create a unique team with over 70 years of combined Rhode Island Family Court experience. We successfully assist clients with divorce, case management, parenting plans, memorandums of understanding, and parent coordination in high conflict families.

For questions about this posting or any divorce questions CONTACT US at (401)942-3000 or visit our Divorce in Rhode Island website

Divorce Litigation

You and/or your spouse may not feel committed to the results of your divorce because of a lack of participation in the process, bitterness fostered during the proceedings, or lack of fairness in the result.

Divorce Mediation

Child support, spousal support and most important of all Parenting Plans are more likely to be maintained when mutually decided. Is this not the least your children deserve.

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Pamela Macktaz and Jean George create a unique team with over 70 years of combined Rhode Island Family Court experience. We successfully assist clients with divorce, case management, parenting plans, memorandums of understanding, and parent coordination in high conflict families.

For questions about this posting or any divorce questions CONTACT US at (401)942-3000 or visit our Divorce in Rhode Island website