Here he comes, the client in immense emotional distress, freshly separated from his wife of several years or even decades. The best well-meaning matrimonial lawyer can't address all his needs, but he or she can start on some of the more important material ones. And it is in that space that an unusual partnership might emerge — between you, his divorce lawyer, and the realtor who is going assist him in finding a short-term or permanent home for the new life upon which he (and maybe his children) will be embarking.

Too often, the relocation thrust upon him as a result of the breakup of the marriage presents a whole host of changes for this client. These changes (financial, custodial, etc.) can place real estate agents and attorneys on a collision course. Why does it happen? What are the causes? Can the threat of conflict be avoided? Yes, the farmer and the cowboy should and can be friends.