Romance and clarity can be strange bedfellows. In the early stages of love or the “honeymoon” phase of a relationship, bliss may camouflage or smooth over the rough spots. However, as bliss wears off and reality sets in, effective communication skills are necessary to ensure the continued survival of the relationship or marriage.

Mediation assists couples to maintain a healthy relationship even while discussing issues related to a dispute. Furthermore, the communication skills learned in mediation may help couples to resolve future dilemmas on their own.

On the eve of marriage, happiness can trump practicalities or wash over potential conflicts down the road. Spouses-to-be may have a prenuptial agreement, but not have discussed its terms at arms length. They may have willingly waived their rights to individual representation, or written an agreement themselves. During negotiations, one person may tiptoe around unpleasant issues rather than bring them up in front of their partner. Multiple marriages, especially with children from prior marriages, create more complications.

I assist couples, who plan to marry, identify issues that need to be discussed and resolved prior to marriage, whether or not a prenuptial agreement is to be drafted. I also assist couples, who do not plan to marry, with communication skills, issue identification and resolution.