I propose a new feature - a posting of insights realized and practice
upgrades discovered. If each member listed at least one a month, we'd
have a great exchange. To start, I have 2:
a. As an alternative to a written proposal on asset division, I made up
4 excel charts, showing different ways a 50/50 split could be done. I
emphasized that they were not "proposals," but just to start the
discussion.Chart A used H's low value of the business (which he is to
get) & W's low value of house contents (she is to get). B used W's high
value of the business & H's high value of house contents. This helped
defuse the value arguments as the bottom line difference was small.
Then I did variations on A & B, labeled A-1 & B-1 which showed a
different allocation of business (a partial buy-out in cash) and
retirement. Client's spouse & counsel thought they were helpful & the
group asked me to run some other options for the next meeting.
b. At the initial meeting with the other lawyer, she explained that she
found it difficult to take notes(minutes) about a meeting and
participate. I offered to do them all & have. As she has a mixed
CP/litigation practice & I don't litigate, this has worked well- I
usually have them out within a couple of days.
A happy solstice to all-the light returns!
