Our Process
Let’s be real: accountability and efficiency are key. That’s why we borrow from project management best practices to keep every phase of your case or deal running smoothly. Think:
Streamlined tasks: We break down complex work into bite-sized milestones.
Strategic resources: Every project has the exact team it needs—no wasted time or money.
Consistent check-ins: You stay in the loop with regular updates and next steps.
It’s transparency meets speed—all tailored to your goals and business development objectives.
Initial Consultation
Every journey begins with an initial consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. During this meeting, we will take the time to understand your situation, discuss your concerns, and provide you with tailored advice on the most effective strategies to address your legal matters—whether through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation.
If you decide to move forward, you will retain our firm either on a full-service or limited-scope basis. At that point, we will formalize our relationship with a written Retainer Agreement and request a preliminary financial retainer to begin working on your case.
Review and Analysis
Our team will conduct a thorough review and analysis of your case in collaboration with you. This process involves examining key issues, organizing financial disclosures, and gathering all relevant documents and information necessary to address your legal concerns effectively. When needed, we may recommend engaging experts to provide specialized assessments, such as pension valuations, custody and access evaluations, or business and income appraisals, ensuring every aspect of your case is supported by precise and reliable insights
Negotiation
At Sydney Denson, we prioritize resolving disputes through negotiation before pursuing litigation or arbitration. Whether through direct discussions, mediation, or during ongoing litigation/arbitration, our goal is to find a resolution that meets your needs efficiently and amicably. Negotiation involves our attorneys working to settle any or all issues in your case collaboratively with the other parties. When all matters are resolved, the agreed-upon terms are formalized in a Separation Agreement or Minutes of Settlement, providing a clear and enforceable framework for the future.
Mediation
Mediation is a collaborative process that can be pursued if both parties agree to participate. Mediators, often experienced family law attorneys, social workers, or psychologists, serve as neutral facilitators. They do not make decisions about your case but guide both parties in negotiating mutually acceptable resolutions for some or all of the issues.
You and the other party can choose to meet with a mediator independently, seek our guidance behind the scenes, or have one of our attorneys attend the mediation with you to provide support and ensure your interests are well-represented. Mediation is a valuable tool for fostering cooperative solutions in a less adversarial environment.
Arbitration
Arbitration, also known as alternative dispute resolution, is a voluntary process that requires the consent of both parties. Unlike mediation, arbitration involves a neutral third party—often a senior family law attorney or retired judge—who is appointed to make binding decisions regarding your case. This approach provides a structured and efficient alternative to traditional litigation while ensuring that disputes are resolved with finality and expertise.
Ligitaion
When an out-of-court settlement cannot be achieved through negotiation or mediation, litigation becomes necessary. In such cases, our team will draft an application on your behalf or respond to an application from the other party. If litigation proceeds, our attorneys will prepare for and represent you in conferences, motions, and trials, alongside a judge, your spouse, and their legal counsel. We are committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the litigation process, which includes: Drafting critical legal documents such as applications, responses, motions, and affidavits. Preparing for and attending questioning sessions. Representing you during conferences, motions, and the final trial. Even during litigation, our firm remains dedicated to exploring opportunities to negotiate a settlement for all or part of the issues, ensuring your interests are always at the forefront.