Collaborative Grand Rounds: Why Collaborative Matters Fail
Even with the best intentions, not every collaborative case succeeds. When they fail, the reasons are rarely as simple as “the wrong clients.” Sometimes it’s the professionals themselves, blind spots, overconfidence, or team dynamics that quietly derail the process.
In this Grand Rounds, a distinguished panel of collaborative leaders: Robert Merlin, Marta Fernandez, Dr. Lana Stern, and Jeffrey Wasserman will dissect real-world examples of failed matters and the lessons they reveal. You’ll be surprised at what really tips the scales: it’s not always high-conflict personalities or financial complexity, but more subtle, systemic factors that professionals often overlook.
Participants will gain:
This session turns failure into a roadmap for resilience, so your next collaborative matter has a better chance to succeed.
Speaker Bios for Why Collaborative Matters Fail Webinar
Robert J. Merlin, Esq.
Robert Merlin is a Florida Bar Board Certified Specialist in Marital and Family Law with over four decades of experience. A pioneer in collaborative practice, he has served as President of the Collaborative Family Law Institute and as a board member of both the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals (FACP) and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP). Robert is also a highly respected trainer and lecturer on the collaborative process, teaching at the University of Florida Levin College of Law and presenting across the country. He has authored numerous publications on collaborative law and received awards including the Stu Webb Distinguished Service Award and the FACP President’s Award.
Marta Fernandez, CPA, JD, MBA
Marta Fernandez is a Certified Public Accountant in both Florida and New York and an attorney with more than 30 years of experience in complex financial and dispute resolution matters. Accredited in business valuation, financial forensics, and collaborative family law, she has testified and consulted in cases involving marital dissolution, economic damages, bankruptcy, and fraud. Marta is a past president of the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals and a frequent lecturer and trainer on the collaborative process. Beyond her professional work, she is President of the Young Patronesses of the Opera, supporting music education for children and youth.
Dr. Lana Stern, Ph.D.
Dr. Lana Stern is a licensed psychologist, marriage and family therapist, and Florida Supreme Court Certified Mediator. With decades of clinical and teaching experience, she is a highly regarded collaborative facilitator in divorce cases. She is Co-President of the Collaborative Family Law Institute and a co-founder of Florida Collaborative Trainers, Inc., where she trains professionals nationwide and internationally. Dr. Stern has published widely, including her article “Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” in the IACP Collaborative Review, and co-authored chapters for Florida Dissolution of Marriage (The Florida Bar). She is recognized for her engaging workshops and dedication to advancing collaborative practice.
Jeffrey P. Wasserman, Esq.
Jeffrey Wasserman is a family law attorney with more than 50 years of legal experience. An “AV” Preeminent-rated lawyer and Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers, he has been a leader in both the Florida Bar and collaborative practice communities. Jeff currently serves as President of the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals, where he also co-chairs the Governance Committee and contributes to credentialing and strategic planning initiatives. He is active in the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals and is a seasoned trainer and presenter at both state and international conferences. Widely published on collaborative law, Jeff received the FACP President’s Award for exemplary service in 2024.
Join our monthly Grand Rounds presentation sponsored by Soberlink.
About Soberlink
Soberlink supports accountability in recovery through innovative remote alcohol monitoring technology. Designed to empower individuals and enhance trust in family law and custody cases, Soberlink’s system combines facial recognition, real-time results, and detailed reporting to help families make informed decisions.
Learn more at soberlink.com.
