Divorce does not have to be a destructive process. Instead it can be a chance for a family to heal and find a new way of functioning that provides for everyone's future roles and lets the rifts between members close so a more cooperative relationship can take place. As family law attorneys, we often see the horrible effects the adversarial model has on families.
Therefore, we have dedicated our law practice to finding alternatives and providing unique options that give families a stepping stone as they start this new chapter in their lives. We represent families in Ft. Myers and surrounding Florida communities, including Cape Coral. Call us at 239-215-4952 to learn more about alternatives to an adversarial divorce.
Therefore, we have dedicated our law practice to finding alternatives and providing unique options that give families a stepping stone as they start this new chapter in their lives. We represent families in Ft. Myers and surrounding Florida communities, including Cape Coral. Call us at 239-215-4952 to learn more about alternatives to an adversarial divorce.
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When I began practicing law in 1971, one member of a couple had to sue the other for divorce, forcing that person to take an adversarial stance. From there, each person would retain a lawyer and come at the proceedings with a "hackles up" attitude, making the entire process into an ordeal that takes far longer than it should, costs a small fortune and leaves the entire family in an emotional, financial and physical shambles.
We focus on alternative dispute resolution. We work with clients who wish to settle their dissolution of marriage amicably, working together to come up with solutions that will work for the entire family, instead of through the traditional, adversarial method of divorce. AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, * the highest rating an attorney can receive from his or her peers.
As lawyers in Fort Myers, Florida, we have seen both ends of the spectrum in regard to how contentious a divorce can be. Witnessing the damage it can do to children and adults, we vowed to find a better way. In the 1990s, attorney Sheldon Finman created cooperative divorce with retired Judge Hugh E. Starnes.
Most people feel that divorce is a messy, angry and hurtful process. It doesn't have to be. You and your spouse can work together to divide your lives peaceably, and make decisions that will make your lives and your children's lives much easier going forward.
Our practice uses problem-solving methods to create a divorce settlement that gives you and your spouse much more control over the end result than you would receive during a standard court divorce.Collaborative divorce: All parties agree to put their efforts into finding common ground and use problem-solving techniques to resolve differences as a divorce settlement agreement is drawn up and a parenting plan is created.
Our practice uses problem-solving methods to create a divorce settlement that gives you and your spouse much more control over the end result than you would receive during a standard court divorce.Collaborative divorce: All parties agree to put their efforts into finding common ground and use problem-solving techniques to resolve differences as a divorce settlement agreement is drawn up and a parenting plan is created.
The traditional legal process of divorce no longer meets the needs of most family members, assuming it ever did in the first place. Typically, one spouse would sue the other spouse for divorce. That process is referred to as the adversarial process, or traditional divorce. Each party retains a lawyer, who takes control of the process on behalf of his or her client.
Reviews (10)
Fred Vos
Jan 01, 2022
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Finman is a wonderful firm. I’m an older person who had no idea how to navigate my way out of a difficult marriage. I met with Shelly and he explained his firm’s process. Julia was my lawyer and guided me every step of the way. She responded quickly to every question and concern. This is a firm that takes the “high road” in what can be a process filled with anger and grief. I highly recommend them.
Cheryl Short
Oct 18, 2021
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I highly recommend this firm. Shelly's invaluable years of experience were needed in my case. He was always available to answer my questions, always professional, kind, patient, but most of all knowledgable of the direction that needed to be taken. Julia was always available to offer a fresh approach and Sherrie was always quick to respond in the office with all my concerns. All three are true Professionals. I am thankful for their expertise, patience and friendship thru a long arduous process.
Rick Lebakken
Oct 03, 2021
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After 30 years of marriage , my wife and I reached a point where divorce was the only remaining option. Though my wife actually did want the divorce, Shelly knew the process would be difficult and emotional. I greatly appreciate his patience and consistency in helping me achieve my goal of a fair and just settlement. I believe he was instrumental in keeping the process on course and out of court. Divorce is painful regardless of who you are, so the best approach is to minimize the pain as much as possible for all involved. Now that the divorce is final and I have accepted my hurt and loss, the
Jared Traum
Sep 30, 2021
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Brian Just
Jun 30, 2021
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I worked with both Shelly and Julia at different stages on my case. They always were always attentive, pleasant, compassionate to all parties. Emails and phone calls was answered within 1 or 2 business days. Conversations were productive and succinct. We ended up with a settlement that all parties were on board with. I would highly recommend either Shelly or Julia to anyone going through a divorce. Sherrie, who works in the front office and handles most of the paperwork is also wonderful to work with.
Kristen Sabo
Mar 24, 2021
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I had the best representation in Julia Finman. She was straightforward, knowledgeable, patient with all my questions, and made sure I understood my legal options. She was incredibly understanding in listening to my concerns and I felt like I had an advocate every step of the way. She treated an otherwise uncomfortable process with the utmost sensitivity and me with kindness. In fact, the entire team was incredibly professional and personable, and in many ways went above and beyond. I felt like a fellow human being and not just another case in working with them. I would hire Julia again in a heartbeat
Mariusz Bielecki
Sep 14, 2019
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I can highly recommend this firm. 5-stars. After multiple settlement offers, mediation, depositions, document dumps and delays, I was ready to throw in the towel. These things have a way of wearing you down over time. However, we decided to fight - all the way through to trial - and I am so glad we did. They say no one "wins" in a divorce, but I felt like a winner. Julia and Shelly are not only top notch attorneys, but they are good people. You won't find a better firm to represent you. Not every divorce is a battle, but for the ones that are, you're going to need a sword and a shield. Good luck
Tina Rowland
Nov 14, 2018
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Going into my divorce was absolutely terrifying. Mr. Finman, Julia and Sherry were so kind and understanding. I will say at this time I trusted know one. They put my mind at ease, helped me to move forward and stay focused. Never was I enticed to do something that I was not ready for. I will always be grateful for their professional passion. I still can't believe I got through it. Deciding on the right lawyer is also terrifying. I will forever be grateful to the friend who recommended him. I now consider all at the Finman Firm my friends.
Brian Longendyke
Aug 22, 2018
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Going through a divorce is a very stressful time. Mr Finman made it so much easier to get through. he made you feel like he was representing a friend. I found him to be a very compassionate and caring man who wanted to see you get the best outcome possible. he is very easy to talk too and you always felt relaxed when you were in his office. his expertise in this area of law is without question. I was very grateful and extremely pleased I had him represent me in my divorce. I would recommend him to everyone without hesitation.
Glenn Bailey
Jul 15, 2018
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If you are in the market for Divorce attorneys, look no further. Sheldon and Julia are excellent at what they do. The divorce process was made less stressful and smoother by their own process keeping matters ammacable between the two parties.
Julia’s availability was second to none and all of my questions were answered immediately.
This firm is highly recommended.
Julia’s availability was second to none and all of my questions were answered immediately.
This firm is highly recommended.
