Authors: Christopher A. Jackson & Kurt E. Schlachter KC

Successful family law practice requires competence, organization, strategy, and effective communication. This paper explores the foundational requirements for early resolution and alternative dispute resolution, along with obstacles and barriers to resolution. It also examines the “pathway” of family law litigation and invites readers to assess how they will deal with things such as: legal issues vs. clients’ inter-party relationship issues, intermediate court applications, utilizing court processes to move matters along, and obtaining final resolutions for clients. Finally, it offers tips on file management, communication, approaching expert reports, and conducting trauma informed practice.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Refresher 2023: Family Law in Jasper from May 4–7, 2023.