(February 7, 2018, 9:39 AM EST) -- While most family law cases
involve only two parties, there can be many other parties who may
play a significant role in the settlement of the case. These can
include cheerleaders, those involved in third party claims, third
parties from whom disclosure is sought, creditors, the Canada
Revenue Agency or the Children's Aid Society.
Cheerleaders
Unlike other litigation, the settlement of family law cases
cannot be addressed without careful consideration of the presence
or absence of cheerleaders. In this context,
"cheerleaders" are friends or family of either or both
parties who can exert influence over the process of settlement. I
encourage clients to bring a trusted friend or relative to meetings
with counsel. Often the third party can digest and record for the
client what was discussed during the meeting and help the client
focus on the issues and the course of action recommended by
counsel. A positive cheerleader can greatly
