Change is such a part of life. Our community is one that has seen dramatic changes during our lifetimes. Not only does our community change, our individual families change. What particular issues do lgbtq families face during the major life shifts of separation or divorce?  How can we, as individuals and as a community, make these transitions with Heart and Smarts?

This two-part interdisciplinary workshop will address how individuals and our community navigate the particular challenges and opportunities accompanying separation or divorce.

Part Two  will involve discussion with three lawyer-mediators to:

•    Review the basic legal landscape for lgbtq people who are separating, whether they are registered as domestic partners and/or married, or partnered without formal legal recognition;

•    Consider the particular benefits for lgbtq families of resolving their separation and post-separation conflicts outside of the courts;

•    Discuss some of the negative consequences that taking a case to court can have for the lgbtq community as a whole; and

•    Outline the characteristics of and differences between different alternative conflict resolution methods such as direct resolution, mediation and collaborative team practice.

This workshop series is appropriate for families who are in any stage of separation, as well as the friends, family and professionals supporting those families. Both workshops will involve input from both lawyers and therapists; we encourage legal and mental health professionals to attend both workshops. Families that do not have children may benefit from, and only attend Part Two, if they wish.

For our community's future, safety and well being, let us resolve our disputes well – and support each other in doing so.

Register: Click here!

When: Jun 5, 2010, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Location: The SF LGBT Community Center
   1800 Market Street
   San Francisco

See Map: Google Maps