For over a decade, I worked as a divorce attorney with a particular heart for family law. But over time, I became disillusioned with the unnecessary cost and emotional burden of divorce cases that were litigated in the courtroom. Even amicable divorces could turn adversarial, and I saw the strain on the families and couples involved.
As a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, I understand the impact divorce has on families and couples. It means adjusting and rearranging roles. It means starting over. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping couples reach resolution through mutual respect, empathy, and communication, rather than courtroom battles. I believe that mediation allows parties to be heard on their own terms, so couples and families can move forward and heal.
I spent my Saturday mornings as a kid watching my dad work at his law firm in Iowa. I’ve always loved the law, and it was a natural choice to follow in his footsteps.
I graduated from Creighton University School of Law in 2007, and practiced for over a decade, co-founding a firm in 2012. In 2016, I followed my passion to find better ways to resolve divorce and switched my focus exclusively to divorce mediation. And I haven’t looked back.
Outside of work, you can find me chasing after my two sons, my pup, Maisy, playing and wrestling with them, and avoiding pineapple on pizza (it’s never OK).
A native of the Netherlands, Elaine has dedicated her professional career to assisting people navigate complex and often traumatic legal issues. Elaine’s early legal work in the United States focused on advocating for victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking.
Now, as the Mediation Coordinator and Intake Specialist for the NOCO Mediation Center, Elaine brings a unique skillset and delicate touch to those seeking resolution to complex matters.
In her free time, Elaine can be found traveling, often in the mountains of Colorado, exploring trails with her beloved dog Ted.
Maisy isn’t a great paralegal, but what she lacks in organizational skills she makes up for in charm.
As our office mascot, Maisy loves to greet our clients with a handshake, a lick, and a tail wag.
(Bonus points if you bring her a treat!)
