Alec Baldwin's Book, "A Promise to Ourselves"

I was given the book "A Promise to Ourselves" by actor Alec Baldwin to read. My friend said it was about his divorce, which took place in a circus-like atmosphere.

I read my copy of the book in an afternoon. I am not here to promote the book, nor do I agree with his perception of my co-professionals. However, I found that I do agree with his idea of how spouses should handle their own divorce -- that is, to think about using collaborative family law and/or mediation first, and pick the litigation arena as a last resort.

Litigation has its place, and might be the right choice to make in some circumstances. That said, there is wisdom in thinking that the parties themselves are better fit to share in decision-making about their own future and that of their children, rather than having a stranger in a black robe do it. I am challenged to understand how such smart, rational-thinking adults, who have loved each other for years, cannot remain unified and focused for awhile longer to decide what is best and right for themselves and their families.

Consensual Dispute Resolution (formerly known as "Alternate Dispute Resolution") allows ways for people to continue to contribute and co-participate in the restructuring of their families. Although the family is changing its formulation, it continues to have intimate connections. Family life cycle events will continue past the divorce. Participating in consensual dispute resolution helps parties move away from this difficult episode in their lives to a future of greater hope and better expectations --for themselves and for their families.

Respectfully submitted,
Steven B. Garelick (CPA, ABV, CVA, CFS, Mediator)
Partner, Senior Litigation Case Manager
email: sgarelic@miod-cpa.com