Rules For Good Communication

1. Discuss present concerns: Practice not bringing up events from the past - especially past faults or problems in your partner - practice focusing in on immediate/present concerns.
2. Propose solutions: If you bring up a problem, you must also propose a possible solution. If the other party rejects your solution, that party must propose their own alternative solution.
3. Speak respectfully: Practice speaking respectfully to your partner - e.g., no put-downs, no snide remarks, no character assassinations.
4. Be factual: Practice describing events in a factual, rather than judgmental fashion.
5. Do not interrupt: Do not interrupt when your partner is speaking.
6. Do not interpret motives: Do not interpret motives in your partner, only describe their behavior.
7. Body language: Watch that your body language communicates respect for your partner.
8. Speak softly: Raised voices inhibit communication.

Rubinstein & Holz
1375 Jackson Street, Suite 304
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 332-3400
Fax: (239) 332-5078

Florida Family Law Attorneys