Why Collaborative Divorce is the Future of Family Law

Photo by Marek Studzinski on Unsplash

Collaborative divorce has transformed divorce proceedings substantially. This alternative method provides couples with a more amicable solution to resolve disputes and end their marriage. By focusing on working together, couples avoid drawn out courtroom battles and put less strain on themselves and those around them.

Benefits of Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce offers numerous advantages over traditional divorce methods, both financially and emotionally. Unlike contentious court battles that can drain bank accounts and heighten tensions, collaborative divorce encourages open communication and cooperation between parties.

Financial Benefits:

  • Lower legal costs due to reduced court time
  • Shared expenses for neutral experts
  • Preservation of assets through negotiation

Emotional Benefits:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Better co-parenting relationships post-divorce
  • Empowerment through active participation in decision-making

Compared to traditional divorce, which often leaves both parties feeling defeated and resentful, collaborative divorce aims for win-win solutions that respect the needs and interests of all family members.

The Collaborative Divorce Process

A Collaborative divorce is a form of uncontested divorce. The collaborative divorce process typically involves several stages, each designed to promote open dialogue and fair resolutions:

  1. Initial consultation: Both parties meet with their respective attorneys to discuss the collaborative approach.
  2. Participation agreement: All parties sign an agreement committing to the collaborative process.
  3. Information gathering: Financial documents and other relevant information are shared transparently.
  4. Joint meetings: A series of meetings are held to address various aspects of the divorce settlement.
  5. Negotiation and problem-solving: Parties work together to find mutually acceptable solutions.
  6. Final agreement: Once all issues are resolved, a final agreement is drafted and signed.

Throughout this process, a team of professionals supports the couple:

  • Collaborative lawyers: Guide the legal aspects and facilitate negotiations
  • Financial advisors: Provide expertise on property division and financial planning
  • Mental health professionals: Offer emotional support and help with communication
  • Child specialists: Advocate for children’s needs and assist with parenting plans

Legal and Social Implications

The rise of collaborative divorce has significant implications for both legal systems and society at large. As more couples opt for this approach when seeking divorce, court dockets may see reduced caseloads, allowing judges to focus on more complex or contentious cases.

This alternative process promotes resolving disputes amicably, having a positive effect on not only the disputing parties, but also on children and family members affected by the divorce proceedings. The emotional strain and stress of divorce can be avoided or lessened by couples working together.

The Promise of Collaborative Divorce

According to the CDC, 2.4 out of every 1,000 people will face divorce. Collaborative divorce represents a paradigm shift in family law, offering a more humane and constructive approach to ending a marriage. By prioritizing communication, cooperation, and mutual respect, this method addresses many of the shortcomings of traditional divorce proceedings.

Collaborative divorce will become increasingly popular for couples looking to resolve their divorce disputes quickly and without the stress and emotional turmoil of a traditional court battle. By promoting healthier relationships post-divorce, couples will ensure that family ties remain intact.

 

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Ready for an ‘Uprising’? Watch the Trailer for Netflix’ period actioner from ‘Oldboy’ writer Park Chan-wook

"Uprising" Netflix Poster

“Uprising” Netflix Poster

Coming soon to Netflix is Uprising, a South Korean period actioner from multi-talented filmmaker Kim Sang-man (Girl Scout), who has served as both art director and score composer on 2006’s Bloody Tie for director Choi Ho, as well as art director for Park Chan-wook’s 2000 classic, Joint Security Area. The film sees Kim re-teaming with Park, who is writing and producing the project.

Uprising stars Gang Dong-won (Dr. Cheon and the Lost Talisman), Park Jeong-min (Fists of Legend) and Cha Seung-won (Believer 2).

Set in the Joseon era during a tumultuous time in the aftermath of war, take a journey through the lives of two childhood friends-turned-adversaries: Cheon Continue reading

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♫ Ready to bust a move to John Woo? Hong Kong action director’s next film be a part musical called ‘X Crucior’

"The Killer" UK Theatrical Poster

“The Killer” UK Theatrical Poster

Hot off the moderate success of 2023’s Silent Night and the recent The Killer remake, acclaimed Hong Kong action filmmaker John Woo (Hard Boiled, Manhunt) is thinking of his next movie, and one of these projects will be a part-musical, which is a genre Woo has been interested in for a very long time (he’s on the record saying musicals influenced his 1997 film, Face/Off).

“My next project is actually a half-musical,” Woo confirms to Empire. “I’m going to be working with the Sparks Brothers, who wrote the script and songs — we are just starting work on some changes to the script.” While the filmmaker didn’t confirm the name of the project, all signs point to it being X Crucior, a film described by Focus Features when initially announced as a ‘musical epic’. Having long declared his dream to make a musical – back in the 1990s, he came close to adapting The Phantom of the Opera into a big-budget Continue reading

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Scott Adkins, Marko Zaror, Daniel Bernhardt, Shaina West merge in the Final Trailer for Dave Bautista’s ‘Killer’s Game’

"Killer's Game" Teaser Poster

“Killer’s Game” Teaser Poster

J.J. Perry, who made his directorial debut with the 2022 Netflix actioner, Day Shift, is getting ready to release The Killer’s Game, an upcoming action-comedy starring Dave Bautista (Master Z: The Ip Man Legacy, Final Score), Sofia Boutella (Atomic Blonde) and Ben Kingsley (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings).

Based on Jay Bonansinga’s novel of the same name, The Killer’s Game involves a world-weary assassin who’s taken a hit out on himself finds a new reason to live after his girlfriend discovers she’s pregnant. Together, they race across Europe, trying to outrun his would-be killers.

The film also features an all-star cast that includes Scott Adkins (John Wick 4), Daniel Continue reading

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Cynthia Rothrock is the best in the West! Watch the New Trailer for the all-star martial arts thriller ‘Black Creek’

"Black Creek" Theatrical Poster

“Black Creek” Theatrical Poster

Cult martial arts action screen icon Cynthia Rothrock (The Blonde Fury, No Retreat No Surrender II, Righting Wrongs) is back with Black Creek, an upcoming western/martial arts action movie, and currently the 3rd most successfully funded action film ‘OF ALL TIME’!

Black Creek is directed by Shannon Lanier, who is perhaps best known for his shorts, Love Between The Sheets and Heidi and Rewind; as well as his cinematography work for films such as Harvey and Under His Control.

Co-starring in Black Creek are fellow cult martial arts stars Olivier Gruner (Angel Town, Showdown in Manila), Don “The Dragon” Wilson (Death Fighter, Diamond Cartel), Richard Norton (Mr. Nice Guy, Millionaires Express), Billy Blanks (King of the Kickboxers, The Master), Keith Continue reading

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Deal on Fire! The Legend is Born: Ip Man | Blu-ray | Only $7.99 – Expires soon!

"The Legend Is Born: Ip Man" Blu-ray Cover

“The Legend Is Born: Ip Man” Blu-ray Cover

Today’s Deal on Fire is the Blu-ray for The Legend is Born: Ip Man, a 2010 martial arts film directed by Herman Yau (Customs Frontline, Death Notice) that stars award-winning wushu martial artist, Dennis To (Kung Fu League,  Zombie 108).

The Legend is Born follows Ip Man as he grows from a promising young pupil into an unstoppable force. When political corruption threatens his temple, Ip Man singlehandedly challenges a swarm of shinobi in an ultimate showdown.

The film features a supporting all-star cast that includes Sammo Hung (Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, Enter the Fat Dragon), Yuen Biao (Operation Bangkok, Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars), Louis Fan (Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky), Huang Yi (Treasure Inn), Lam Suet (I Did It My Way), Ip Chun (Bruce Lee: The Man, The Myth), son of Continue reading

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Simon Yam is ‘The Comeback’ kid! Watch the New Trailer for this action thriller also starring martial arts star Andy On

"The Comeback" Theatrical Poster

“The Comeback” Theatrical Poster

Arriving on Digital on August 6th, 2024 is The Comeback, the latest action import from U.S. label Well Go USA.

Directed by Suiqiang Huo (Blind War), The Comeback stars Simon Yam (I Did It My Way, Bullet in the Head) and Andy On (Undercover Punch and Gun, Abduction).

Uncle Hua (Yam), an antiques-dealer, has lived in the old street for many years, and is highly respected by his neighbors. But once gangsters get involved with his peaceful stomping grounds, Uncle Hua has no choice but to get tough!

The Comeback also stars Yuen Wah (The Trough) and Norman Chu (Code of the Assassin).

Watch Well Continue reading

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The lethal weapon is back! New U.S. Trailer for Ryoo Seung-wan’s ‘I, the Executioner’ starring Hwang Jung-min

"I, the Executioner" Theatrical Poster

“I, the Executioner” Theatrical Poster

Director Ryoo Seung-wan (The Battleship Island, Escape from Mogadishu) is a familiar name to fans of Korean action cinema, ever since his debut Die Bad in 2000, he’s consistently delivered a series of movies which combine action with a strong narrative.

Since his riotous parody of old school Korean action movies with 2008’s Dachimawa Lee, the director has taken a decidedly darker approach, with both The Unjust and The Berlin File exploring the not so pleasant side of life. While both contained plenty of his trademarks, Seung-wan himself expressed a desire to move away from these darker tales, and get back to the type of action movies that he watched in his youth, those that existed in a brighter world where the good guy wins.

2015’s Veteran was that return, and was arguably his most successful production Continue reading

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‘The Mob’ has gone digital! Zhao Cong’s gangster thriller available On Digital on September 10th from Well Go USA

"The Mob" Theatrical Poster

“The Mob” Theatrical Poster

Here’s an offer you can’t refuse… On September 10, 2024, the gritty gangster actioner The Mob will arrive On Digital. This gangster thriller is directed by Zhao Cong (Rise of the Jurassic).

After the murder of its high-profile patriarch, the Zhou family seeks revenge against a ruthless rival clan moving to expand its own territory, sparking a brutal conflict between the warring families that throws Shanghai into chaos.

The Mob stars Xu Fangzhou (All These Years), Zhang Junran (Trace), Yan Jiaying (Tiger Killer), Chen Junxi (Annals of Longevity), Guan Xiaotian (Switch), and Zhang Zhiwei (The Woman Knight of Mirror Lake)

The film is also currently on the martial arts streaming service Hi-YAH! If you want Continue reading

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Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers | Blu-ray (Shout!)

RELEASE DATE: November 12, 2024

On November 12, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray Collection for Golden Harvest Vol. 1: Supernatural Shockers, which will include 1991’s Sex and Zen, 1990’s Erotic Ghost Story, 1991’s Erotic Ghost Story II, 1992’s Erotic Ghost Story III, 1990’s Doctor Vampire and 1991’s Robotrix. 

Read the official details:

Scandalous. Sensual. Shocking. Prepare yourself for a collection of some of the most outrageous offerings in the history of Hong Kong Cinema! The Golden Harvest Collection, Volume 1: Supernatural Shockers brings you six of the steamiest, most outrageous films you’ve ever seen (including several infamous “Category III” – adults only – classics)! From the unearthly appearance of ghosts and vampires to the undeniable screen presence of Amy Yip, these sublimely sexy Continue reading

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Striving for Excellence: How to Be the Best of the Best in Your Field

Both talent and practice, followed by strategic planning are necessary to be in the hands-down best for any field. It doesn’t matter if you want to be successful at work, in academics, or partaking in personal growth – keeping high standards for yourself and working hard towards your goals is a crucial thing. Here, we will discuss top strategies and practices that could help you dominate your technical interview (pun intended).

1. Define Your Goals and Vision

Knowing what you want fuels your ambitions and aspirations to be the best at whatever it is that you do. Aim for the standards of excellence you would like to achieve and set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable Relevant & Time-bound goals. 

This can take the form of launching a successful start-up, bringing in revenue, or gaining expert-level status within your market if you are an aspiring entrepreneur. Having a clear vision will keep you on track and motivated, which will help direct your actions and decisions as each accomplishment leads to another.

2. Develop Expertise and Skill

What tends to become excellence is generated on top of a background regardless of expertise and skill. You will be the number one in your field, for instance in basketball collecting Basketball trophies, making time and effort to grow up as a pro. It may include going back to school or getting certifications, and perpetual learning. 

Keep up with the prevailing trends and innovations within your field, looking for professional growth opportunities as well.  Regular practice to hone your skills will make you a better pro at what you do and stand out as one of the best in your role.

3. Embrace a Growth Mindset

The beginning to excellence overcome obstacles and see them as learning tools for growth. A mindset of effort, resilience, and adaptability is what will help you hurdle whatever comes your way the best. You can improve speaking by working on your personal development and professional growth. By being the best, you already completed your goals but you must also stay within your limit.

4. Build a Strong Network

For the most part, achievement is due to networking. Start surrounding yourself with people who inspire and push you. Spend time in networks of mentors, peers, and industry leaders who can offer help, support you be a treasure chest of knowledge. 

Networking also flourishes your opportunities and provides you with the appropriate collaborations to help you move a step closer to what your aims are. Go to industry conferences, become members of professional organizations, and put yourself out there in the right communities.

5. Foster Continuous Improvement

Excellence is a way of traveling and out not the destination. Be the best version of yourself to stay ahead. Spend time making sure you are still performing well, getting feedback, and learning how to do better. 

Integrating techniques to hone your skills and keeping receptive to new ideas, and methods will allow you to be resilient in a constantly shifting business environment as well as ensure that there are always opportunities out for the taking. By continuing the development of a culture that supports growth and innovation, you set your company up to be industry-leading well into the future.

Via Pexels

6, Lead by Example and Motivate Others

Part of being the best of the best is also helping to inspire and lead others. Inspire and show everyone around you by sharing your learnings, experiences & wins so that they too can stand on their battlefield! 

You have the power to positively affect those near you by leading with your actions and showing well in everything that you do. If you are a leader, mentor, or role model in some capacity — your leadership and example can help others be successful which only further solidifies the notion you might be on top.

7. Cultural And Personal Development of the Community

Go beyond your professional achievements and achieve excellence in your personal life as well as community participation. Involvement in the community, volunteering, and supporting causes that matter to you can bring greater satisfaction overall as well as help build your image.

Lastly, managing your work-life balance and spending time with personal growth tools could benefit both your performance and health. Doing things that make YOUR life better and also the bigger contribute to round out a picture of excellence in totality.

In conclusion, the process of achieving extraordinary and setting down the best requires a structured approach, an initiation to prepare for excellence, investing knowledge in learning skills & continuous improvement. Articulating your vision, staying open to growing, and tracking against a high bar can all help you achieve excellence in the context of your work. If you work hard, have perseverance, and dedicate yourself with practice, great things will happen in your life — greatness that can positively influence others for generations.

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The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

The Stephen Chow Collection | Blu-ray (Shout! Factory)

RELEASE DATE: November 26th, 2024

On November 26, 2024, Shout! Factory will be releasing the Blu-ray for The Stephen Chow Collection, which will include 1990’s Look Out, Officer!, 1992’s Justice, My Foot!, 1993’s The Mad Monk and 1995’s Out of the Dark.

Read the official details:

Celebrate the legendary career of Hong Kong master of mirth and mayhem Stephen Chow (Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle) with this four-film collection!

Selected from Chow’s ’90s prime, these films showcase the unique comedy & action stylings that made Chow an international star of the screen. Get ready for laughs, thrills, and appearances from a bevy of Hong Kong legends, including Maggie Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, Martial Arts Titles, News |

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection | 4K Ultra HD (88 Films)

RELEASE DATE: November 25, 2024

On November 25, 2024, 88 Films will be releasing The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk Collection on 4K Ultra HD, which will include two Corey Yuen-directed martial arts classics: 1993’s The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk and The Legend of Fong Sai-yuk II.

The films co-star Josephine Siao Fung Fung (Summer Snow), Michelle Reis (Bodyguards & Assassins), Vincent Chiu Man Chuk (Once Upon a Time in China IV), Sibelle Hu (The Holy Virgin Versus the Evil Dead), Adam Cheng (Seven Warriors) and Amy Kwok (Victim).

This limited edition Jet Li double feature includes two breathtaking martial arts action films directed by Corey Yuen (The Transporter). In The Legend of Fong Sai Yuk, Jet Li stars as a carefree young martial arts expert who gets involved with a government Continue reading

Posted in Asian Titles, DVD/Blu-ray New Releases, Martial Arts Titles, News |

Legend of the zoo warrior? New Poster Jackie Chan’s ‘Panda Plan’ from ‘Song of Youth’ director Zhang Luan

"Panda Plan" Theatrical Poster

“Panda Plan” Theatrical Poster

Martial arts superstar Jackie Chan (Hidden Strike, Ride On) is headed to the zoo with Panda Plan (aka Project P), Mandarin Motion Pictures’ upcoming film directed by Zhang Luan (Song of YouthGive Me Five). If you’re into the action-comedy genre, this one will make you win all the money you want, as if you were using a BetWinner verifier coupon.

The film centers on a rare baby panda with a dark circle around just one eye, who becomes a worldwide sensation when he’s born at China’s Noah Zoo. But when a Middle Eastern tycoon dispatches international mercenaries to kidnap the zoo’s baby pandas, Chan, playing a version of himself as an international action star, is forced to get involved in a rescue mission (via THR).

Panda Plan also stars Shi Ce (Hi, Mom), Wei Xiang (Full River Red), Han Continue reading

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Killer, The (2024) Review

"The Killer" International Poster

“The Killer” International Poster

Director: John Woo
Cast: Omar Sy, Nathalie Emmanuel, Diana Silvers, Sam Worthington, Eric Cantona, Aurélia Agel, Tchéky Karyo, Saïd Taghmaoui, Angeles Woo
Running Time: 126 min.

By Paul Bramhall 

Chances are if you’re a fan of Hong Kong action cinema, then John Woo’s 1989 classic The Killer is part of the reason why. In the 35 years since there’s been multiple attempts at a Hollywood remake – in the 1990’s Richard Gere and Denzel Washington were frequently attached to a script penned by Walter Hill and David Gilder. In the early 2010’s Jung Woo-sung was set to make his English language debut in a version helmed by John H. Lee planned to be shot in 3D. Then in the mid-2010’s John Woo expressed his own desire to direct the remake, one which was eventually slated to star Lupita Nyong’o, however the COVID-19 pandemic put the project on ice. The one common factor each failed attempt shared was a collective sigh of relief from the originals loyal fanbase, with the general consensus being that it was one of those movies that should be left alone.

However Hollywood doesn’t work that way, so in 2024 the remake eventually hit the screens – the screens of Peacock subscribers to be precise, which for those living outside of the U.S. (which includes myself), is a U.S. only streaming service. It was an unceremonious release, not only skipping cinemas, but arriving on a platform that has just 34 million subscribers, a number that Netflix’s global reach of 277 million dwarfs in comparison. However, it does have John Woo Continue reading

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