Kendrick Davis: Advocating With Empathy In Fort Collins

Kendrick: Early in my career, I clerked for a judge who had a domestic relations docket, and I found the issues fascinating. After my clerkship, I went into employment law, but family law was always on my mind. I wanted to be in a role where I could counsel clients directly and help them through difficult times in their lives.

Caroline: Do you feel your previous experience in employment law has helped prepare you for family law?

Kendrick: Definitely. Employment law is emotional, with clients often deeply affected by their job situations. I’ve worked with people in vulnerable situations, and it has prepared me to support clients in family law who often go through similar emotional experiences.

Kendrick: Client communication is crucial. In employment law, clients had different goals—some wanted their day in court, others wanted a financial resolution or acknowledgment of wrongdoing. Understanding each client’s unique priorities in family law helps me strategize to achieve the best possible outcome.

Kendrick: The biggest piece of advice is to know what you want and be prepared for emotional challenges. Divorce can bring out unexpected emotions, from both yourself and the other party. Attorneys are here to support and guide you through this, so lean on us to help manage the stress.

Kendrick: I remind myself that while I can empathize with clients, I’m not in their exact situation. That mindset helps me approach sensitive topics and connect with clients, letting them know I’m truly in their corner and understand the importance of their case to their lives.

Caroline: Do you have an example of tailoring your approach to meet a client’s unique needs?

Kendrick: Every case requires a unique approach, but my goal is to understand each client’s goals and tailor our strategy around that. I advise on the best course while supporting their decisions, letting them know it’s their life and choices that matter most.

Kendrick: I believe mediation is often the best first approach, as it’s cost-effective and allows clients to retain control over the outcome. If it’s clear that issues can’t be resolved, we may go to court, but mediation provides a flexible environment to negotiate and reach mutually beneficial solutions.

Caroline: Do most of your cases go through mediation?

Kendrick: Yes, many cases do, although we sometimes still go to court. I find mediation beneficial even in high-conflict cases, as it allows us to understand the other party’s perspective and potentially agree on some points early on.

Kendrick: Family law involves much more client counseling than other fields. Clients come to us with deeply personal issues, so being prepared to listen and empathize is crucial. Each case is unique, so understanding your client’s goals will help you tailor your approach effectively.

Caroline: That’s great advice. Thank you, Kendrick! Anything else you’d like to add?

Kendrick: Just that full transparency from clients is essential. Share everything, even if it seems irrelevant. It could significantly impact your case.