Why I’m Participating in Divorce with Respect Week~ 3 min read

Divorce with Respect Week - March 4-8, 2024

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of a contentious divorce. As a child of parents who engaged in bitter litigation, I experienced the emotional toll it took on our family. The constant conflict, animosity, and tension created a toxic environment that left lasting scars on everyone involved. My own experiences fueled my passion for advocating for a better way to navigate divorce – one that prioritizes respect, empathy, and collaboration.

After over 20 years of practicing law, primarily in litigation-focused cases, I’ve come to realize that there is a better way to handle divorce. Divorce with Respect Week is a national initiative that aims to raise awareness about the Collaborative Divorce process and alternative dispute resolution methods. It emphasizes finding mutually beneficial solutions outside of the courtroom, ultimately fostering healthier outcomes for families.

Divorce isn’t just a legal process; it’s a deeply personal and emotional journey that affects everyone involved. The ripple effects of a divorce can reach from children to extended relatives, impacting their entire lives and future relationships. Through my own experiences and professional observations, I’ve seen how a respectful and amicable approach to divorce can lessen the negative impact on families. By participating in Divorce with Respect Week, I hope to show how important it is to put everyone’s well-being first, especially children.

One of the main reasons I’m participating in Divorce with Respect Week is to spread awareness about the benefits of Collaborative Divorce and alternative dispute resolution methods. Many people are unaware that there are options beyond traditional litigation. By sharing my own experiences and knowledge, I want to help people going through a divorce find better ways to work through their differences.

By advocating for respectful and cooperative divorce processes, I hope to set a positive example for future generations. Divorce doesn’t have to be synonymous with bitterness and hostility.  By showing empathy, understanding, and a willingness to compromise during divorce, we can build healthier relationships and brighter futures for everyone. This also helps teach children valuable problem-solving skills they can use later in their own lives.

Participating in Divorce with Respect Week isn’t just about promoting alternative dispute resolution methods – it’s about advocating for a cultural shift towards greater compassion, understanding, and respect in all aspects of divorce. Through education, awareness, and a commitment to positive change, we can help families navigate the challenges of divorce with dignity, grace, and mutual respect.

If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding divorce or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.

Jennifer Piper

Jennifer R. Piper is a family law attorney, mediator, and parenting coordinator with more than 20 years of experience serving families in the St. Louis area. She is certified as a Guardian ad Litem and frequently appointed by courts to represent children in high-conflict cases. Jennifer is a former Chair of the Family and Juvenile Law Section of the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and an active leader in local and state bar organizations.
Her professional recognition includes being named to The Best Lawyers in America® (2017–2025), Missouri Super Lawyers (2021–2024), and receiving a Women’s Justice Award from Missouri Lawyers Weekly. Jennifer also holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. She regularly speaks on family law topics and has helped shape family court procedures through her service on multiple committees.

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