Proven Outcomes, Real-Life Experiences: Family Law Case Studies at Zhivago Law
We advocate empowerment. Your case is not just a legal matter to us-it is a unique human experience with a story of strength, triumph, and transformation at its core. We know that behind every family law case, there is a person engaged in the fundamental human struggles of love, loss, and the pursuit of justice. Kerrie Droban-author, true-crime writer, and nationally recognized family law attorney-leads the team of dedicated professionals at Zhivago Law. We devote ourselves to preserving what so many people hold dear while stabilizing their circumstances during times of significant transition.
On this page, we offer in-depth descriptions of cases presenting favorable outcomes for clients in Arizona. Every case demonstrates how we take a holistic, solution-oriented approach to each matter-and how comprehensive, individualized attention to detail can make all the difference.
Case Study 1: Achieving financial and emotional stability following a contested divorce
When Sarah M. walked into Zhivago Law, she was in the midst of a hotly contested divorce involving years of emotional and financial abuse. Her ex had turned hostile, refusing to negotiate and unwilling to reveal necessary marital assets and information. Kerrie Droban’s background in investigation and strong listening skills helped Sarah feel at ease and trusting, and established an immediate action plan.
Document discovery and firm negotiating brought about the revelation of hidden assets and equitable disclosure of all marital property. Kerrie’s dual experience in litigation and mediation served her and Sarah well, as tempers were diffused before they could escalate. She kept negotiations focused on solutions-not on continuing years of battles that would only serve to heap on more bitterness.
The outcome: Equitable division of assets (including the family home) and spousal support for a limited term that enabled Sarah to begin anew. Better yet, she emerged with confidence and a clear view of her new beginning.
“Kerrie gave me my voice back, and never left me feeling like I was going through this alone. I have finally begun fresh on my own terms.”
Case Study 2: Innovative child custody resolution for complex family relations
Jason and Emily D. reached out to Zhivago Law when they were at an impasse in their child custody dispute. Each parent passionately agreed that the best interests of the children were paramount but sharply disagreed on major decision-making issues-education, health care, religious beliefs, and more. The parties had previously tried mediation with another service provider but each felt they weren’t heard. Their children were caught in between.
Kerrie Droban’s combined expertise as a master negotiator and insightful communicator proved invaluable. She guided both parents through a child-focused process, ensuring they each understood the legal issues and the best interests of the children standard used under Arizona law. Instead of insisting on an off-the-shelf parenting plan, Kerrie creatively crafted a family-specific and unique co-parenting agreement allocating decision-making authority, based on each parent’s strengths as well as the current and future needs of the children.
The customized process not only helped Jason and Emily quickly agree on their heated custodial dispute but also set the framework for positive and respectful communication into the future between parents and children. These parents, who are now happily co-parenting despite their differences, are actively involved in their children’s lives-and their children are thriving because of it. Friends have even joked that they have become “helicopter parents.”
Case Study 3: Asset protection and business security during family transition
When the owner of a small business, Mark L., was divorcing, the first thing he wanted to do was protect the company he built. Mark’s spouse’s attorneys went after his company aggressively. If allowed, he feared for the very viability of the company. Mark contacted Zhivago Law for help and protection: Kerrie’s investigative skills and knowledge of business valuation practices changed everything. She engaged forensic accountants to perform an independent investigation that pieced together the financial picture succinctly and honestly, and dissected the business between marital and premarital assets.
Through sound negotiation, Kerrie was able to show how the company did not need to be divided and sold but could be appreciated as a source of income for both parties going forward. The result was that Mark’s interest in his business and control over its decision making were preserved while his ex-wife received a fair buyout.
“My future in this industry was secured, my employees were taken care of, I didn’t have to drag it through litigation elsewhere and more importantly, I’ll never forget…Kerrie kept my peace of mind.”
Case Study 4: Survivor protection and support in cases involving domestic violence
Maria P. finally reached out to Zhivago Law after spending years in an abusive relationship. Concerned for her own well-being and that of her children, Maria needed immediate protection as well as long-term plans to ensure her family’s safety and security. Kerrie Droban’s caring yet strategic style made sure Maria received personalized support and full advocacy from the very start.
Kerrie quickly secured a necessary order of protection, worked with local shelters, and provided counseling referrals. Then Kerrie patiently walked Maria through the divorce process, seeking full custody and safe, limited supervised visitation. At each step in the process, Kerrie was Maria’s steady emotional support.
The court awarded Maria full custody, issued a permanent order of protection, and granted her exclusive possession of the family home. With the threat removed and her safety secured, Maria could begin the healing process and move forward with her life.
“I feel hope for the first time in years…Kerrie didn’t just represent me, she empowered me.”
Case Study 5: Productive mediation-positive legal conclusion between blended families
David and Lisa S. came to Zhivago Law looking for an amicable divorce that considered the needs of their blended family. Both David and Lisa wanted to avoid litigation and minimize the emotional impact of a contested divorce on the children. Kerrie R. Droban’s mediation approach and respect for each party allowed them to come to a resolution.
Kerrie encouraged open and honest communication in a confidential setting, which allowed everyone to be heard. By considering the common desire to effectively co-parent in a way that preserved family relationships, she assisted David and Lisa in coming to an agreement regarding property distribution, parenting time, and support without going to court.
The case was resolved with a mutually acceptable settlement. The family avoided costly and divisive litigation. David and Lisa have remained amicable and are getting along well post-divorce because they know (with a little help from mediators like Kerrie) divorce does not have to be a fight!
Why Trust Zhivago Law with Your Family Law Case?
The following case studies are just a handful of the many times Zhivago Law has empowered clients to rediscover their voice and strength when facing life’s toughest transitions. Kerrie Droban’s background as both an attorney and true crime author ensures that not one matter goes without thorough investigative and legal work, creative out-of-the-box problem solving, and most critically, compassionate representation.
Whether it be in the case of a complex divorce or sensitive custody or child support dispute, our firm excels in individualized client attention, strategic counsel, and holistic resolution. Be it through negotiations, mediation, or litigation, we advocate for our clients every step of the way to empower them and achieve results that endure-because here at Zhivago Law, divorced isn’t ever the end, it’s always a new beginning.
Speak with Zhivago Law: Start Your New Chapter Today
Facing divorce, custody, property division, or any family law-related matters in Arizona? Zhivago Law can help you find your voice and get you started on the path to regaining your future. Your case will be handled personally by Kerrie Droban, so you know you have someone to turn to and receive the attention and care you deserve.
Contact us today at (480) 612-3058 to schedule a confidential consultation to learn how we can help you. Meet Kerrie Droban at one of our convenient locations in Phoenix or Scottsdale:
- Phoenix Office: 1934 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 120-482, Phoenix, AZ 85016
- Scottsdale Office: Kierland Suites, 6424 Greenway Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
- Union Hills Corp. Center: 18444 N 25th Ave., Suite 420, Phoenix, AZ 85023
- Fax: 1-623-551-3891
Find your voice.
Find your future.
Call Zhivago Law.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Zhivago Law today.