Welcome to Zawada Family Law Insights, a legal blog that (hopefully) provides helpful insights into the complicated world of family law. Before we get it into the nitty gritty, I thought I would share a little of my background and answer the ‘why do I practice family law’ question.
I’ll start by saying I love what I do. I get a lot of fulfillment from helping clients navigate through some of the most challenging experiences of their lives. My favorite thing is hearing from clients after their cases are over, getting updates on what they are doing or how their children are growing up. It is rewarding to see them on the other side happy and content. My role in each of my client’s lives is challenging and often requires me to wear multiple hats, but I can’t imagine doing anything else.
My first encounter in the area of family law came during my teens when my parents went through a bitter and contentious divorce. It was a traumatic experience that shifted my views on contested family issues and developed me in ways that now allow me to offer a unique perspective to the individuals I represent, especially in dealing with cases involving minor children.
One of my most important roles when representing clients is that of an educator. I often tell clients “This is your life. You have to live with the decision after I am gone.” I believe in equipping my clients with the knowledge and tools needed to make educated decisions on issues that will impact their lives. I tell each of my clients what the law says, what the possible outcome(s) might be, and what I think is reasonable under the circumstances. Sometimes the advice is not what they want to hear, but what I think they need to hear. Whatever the decision, I completely support each client through their decision-making process.
I started Zawada Family Law so that I can focus on my client’s issues personally and devote my attention to the matters I care most about. I understand the impact my role can have on an individual’s life and I take that responsibility incredibly seriously. I never treat a client as just a number; each client is an individual who deserves my full attention. I am so excited to continue to develop relationships with my clients and hopefully use my experience and expertise to make a positive impact in each of their lives.