First, I am  lawyer.  My husband is a lawyer.

Second, we have made satisfactory livings being lawyers.  Many of our friends are lawyers.

I am active in bar associations which are professional associations that support lawyers, the business of Law, court systems and provide a voice and forum for people who work in the law.

Over the past 10-15 years, I have seen a growing dissatisfaction in the business and practice of the law.  The complexity of getting a case to trial has increased exponentially and for some lawyers, hourly rates have exploded to the point that average folks can't afford the fees.

There has been a remarkable rise in alternatives to litigation which include a variety of options like mediation or collaborative process.  These concepts are loosely called 'integrative law models'.

Lawyers are acutely aware of the public's fear and loathing for the law.  We want to accommodate the public's need for accurate, reliable advice and information while also making a living in the law.  But lawyers need the public to understand and embrace alternatives to a day in court and realize that the purpose of the law is to solve a problem or dispute and not to get revenge.

Lawyers can and should provide advice and guidance to help people resolve issues between themselves and other parties, not exacerbate an already existing problem.  A lawyer can give context to legal rights and responsibilities that help folks in times of troubled waters.  Is that worth your money?