>Leslie's Point of View

Why family law?

I have always been drawn to listening to others and helping people create solutions to their problems. Divorce is an emotional and sometimes traumatic experience and it is important for the client to have a "voice of reason" available to help them through the process. Even though the first thing people think when they hear the word "divorce" is the destruction of a family, that doesn’t have to be the case. I take pride in having the ability to help my clients create new family identities, which are healthier and more productive and reliable than the family system they are leaving. My hope is that the client will develop a greater sense of self-worth and personal identity. 

What can clients expect when they work with you personally?

I am very direct and honest. In most cases, an experienced attorney can tell you, within a few percentage points, how each case should be resolved. I believe in telling clients the truth versus telling them what they want to hear. I know the law and I know how to argue it to my client’s advantage, but I don’t believe in fighting just for the sake of fighting. I approach every case with an attempt to reach a fair and amicable settlement. If that fails, I am prepared to litigate to get the best result for my client. 

What can clients expect when they work with Nottage and Ward?

At Nottage and Ward we have very strong, positive personalities. In a social situation that may be daunting, but in a crisis situation it is very reassuring. Although I do not make decisions for my clients, they can feel our strength and have the courage to proceed with our help. We’re very direct, we’re informative and we assist the client on every decision. We explain the case to the client and help them understand the process. We help them make decisions based on their value systems, not ours. In the end, they need to be comfortable with these decisions.