In the second chapter, the judge recommends alternatives to conventional divorce, specifically mediation and collaborative divorce.

Even in the best of circumstances, says the judge, “There is the possibility that even a well-meaning, experienced family law judge will rule for the wrong side.”

When one or both spouses are determined to drag out a divorce case, the process can be interminable.

The judge devotes two entire chapters to legal issues regarding the children of divorce.

The legal system by its very nature pits one spouse against the other, increasing tension and negativity.

The judge says that more than 90% of divorce cases settle before going all the way to trial.

“Whatever you do, try to keep your divorce out of divorce court,” says Judge Roderic Duncan.   That seems like strange advice from a man who’s ruled on 25,000 divorce cases.