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Spirituality and Family Law

Divorce as an Opportunity for Compassion and Growth

As a society, we have a habit of seeing conflict, anger and fear as an inevitable part of divorce. The media and our adversarial family court system encourage this stereotype and it becomes an unfortunate reality for many people.

Indeed, some lawyers seem to fan the flames of anger that hurt spouses already feel toward one another. Angry feelings and hardened positions mean more time in court and more money to the law firm.

While feelings of fear, anger and sadness are inevitable with any major life change, we all have a choice about how we will use this transformative time in our life. Change is difficult, but it also presents opportunities for growth and understanding if we choose to do so.

Some people find it helpful to draw upon spiritual principles and practices to help them bring their higher selves to the negotiating table in divorce.

At the Law Offices of Michael L. Shevick, we honor the religious and spiritual paths that inform our client's decisions in divorce, child custody and other family law matters. Our firm does not promote any particular religious view; but in all cases we work with respect for all parties in the divorce process, with special attention to the needs of parents and children.

The way in which we work — particularly our focus on collaborative law — is a direct result of our belief that how one approaches divorce can have a positive (or negative) effect on the outcome.

"When two people decide to get a divorce, it isn’t a sign that they “don’t understand” one another, but a sign that they have, at last, begun to." ~ HELEN ROWLAND, A Guide to Men

Listening is one of the most valuable services we provide. In emotionally stressful situations, people sometimes say or do things that they do not mean; that will ultimately be hurtful to them. We strive to listen below the hurt. By remaining mindful to your intent for a positive outcome, we can advise you on a course of action that you will feel good about in the future.

People are often their own biggest critics. Rest assured that we are not here to judge you. We approach every person and every meeting with compassion and a desire to understand the underlying issues. Our goal is to support you so you are able to make the best decisions possible for your future and the future of your children.

If you are considering divorce, we invite you to speak with family law attorney Michael L. Shevick or another member of our staff o learn more about how we can help you. Contact us online or call 312-269-4600.