Episode 235 - Collaborative Law Options For Divorce

This episode of The D Shift focuses on the often-overlooked possibilities offered by collaborative law for divorce. Mardi Winder is joined by Manisha Patel, an attorney known for blending legal expertise with a compassionate approach to the challenges of family separation. Through their conversation, Manisha Patel shares her journey from traditional litigation toward embracing alternative dispute resolution, particularly collaborative law. She explains how her experience with adversarial cases led her to realize that families benefit most from processes that prioritize emotional, mental, and financial well-being.

Listeners will gain a clear understanding of collaborative family law and how it differs from mediation. Manisha Patel outlines the collaborative law framework, emphasizing open disclosure and a commitment not to pursue litigation, allowing couples to maintain greater control over their outcomes. The episode also touches on the role of other professionals, such as child welfare specialists and financial neutrals, in supporting families through this process.

Through practical examples and thoughtful insight, Manisha addresses common concerns, including fears about working collaboratively when tensions or personality conflicts arise. She underscores the value of communication and the potential for collaborative law to prepare parents for healthy co-parenting beyond divorce, regardless of their current relationship. The conversation highlights choosing the best path for your unique situation and reminds listeners of the power and ownership they retain when making decisions together.

About the Guest:

Manisha Patel is known for combining deep legal expertise with a calm, practical, and compassionate approach that helps clients make good decisions in some of the most stressful moments of their lives. As a collaborative family law attorney, certified mediator, and founder of a boutique family law firm in Greensboro, North Carolina, Manisha focuses on helping families navigate separation, divorce, and co parenting with less conflict and more clarity, using collaborative law and mediation to keep people out of courtroom battles whenever possible.

She is an elected Councilor to the North Carolina State Bar and past President of the Greensboro Bar Association, as well as a longtime leader in organizations that support women in the legal profession, pro bono service, and lawyer wellness. Her new book, End Your Marriage Peacefully: Your Guide to Successful Collaborative Divorce in North Carolina, launches in 2026.

For Manisha’s gift: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mdfky2F_12czu_q0QCIBJFvO_OKezzcz/view?usp=drive_link

To connect with Manisha:

Website: www.lawofficeofmpp.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manishappatel

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/law-office-of-manisha-p-patel-pllc/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/lompp18/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lawofficeofmpp