Imagine being married for six years to the man of your dreams. The two of you enjoy the same movies, similar music, the same sports teams, you have a great house and a tight knit circle of friends who you enjoy spending time with. This is a relationship that you feel secure and safe in.

Tying the knot used to be a fairly commonplace in the United States for people in their 20s and maybe into their early 30s, but younger people now are changing the expected norms that earlier generations held for them.

Decisions left in the hands of the court rarely have the desired outcome that the parties intended and these decisions can be devastating for children. While there are religious customs and, sometimes, restrictions, that are expected to be observed in a devout setting, families should always remember that they have options.

“To err is human; to forgive is divine.” As human beings, we are all bound to make mistakes, some big and some small. These slip-ups can cause a world of hurt to our families, friends, colleagues, and to ourselves. Yet we also have the unique ability to forgive. The path to true forgiveness, especially during times of divorce, can seem like an impossibility. But with a Collaborative team to assist you and your family, “genuine (self) forgiveness, is a precursor to effective change.”

In honor of the royal wedding, The New York Times asked readers to share their tips for a happy marriage…and here’s what they said…

Financial strains need not leave you in a position where your family has to suffer during a divorce. Looking at the big picture and remembering that you have options are the keys to success.

When I speak with people about my passion for Collaborative Divorce and how much it benefits families who are seeking a better path forward, I am almost always asked - “oh, that’s the same as mediation, right?”  Simply put, no.  It is not the same thing.

In marriage, just as in life, there are few things more important than fiscal planning. While many people believe that prenuptial agreements aren’t necessary, careful financial planning and honest conversations will leave you and your family feeling protected and confident in the future.

Your family deserves a future filled with security and certainty.

In keeping with the basic tenets of my Collaborative Divorce Law Firm, I founded The Long Island Collaborative Divorce Professionals in order to bring together the brightest and most dedicated professionals in their industries, to help Long Island families resolve family disputes in a dignified and confidential way - without ever having to go to court.

The essence of who I am is a loyal friend, a dedicated teacher and a passionate advocate who uses my law degree to serve families in need and help them resolve family issues, outside the court system.