Etiquette and Guidelines 
=========================

April 6, 2008

This is a mutual self-help group for people going through separatino and 
divorce, with addition of single parenting and co-parenting concerns. 

It is our hope that this group can provide a safe environment, for 
emotional and moral support, as well as sharing of information and 
experience of its members. Each of us is encouraged to participate to
whatever extent we feel comfortable. The following ground rules facilitate 
the development of trust in the group and enable us to share our thoughts 
and feelings with each other.

1. Because confidentiality is essential, we expect that each person 
   will respect and maintain the confidentiality of the group. What is said 
   in the group is not to be repeated or discussed at any other time or 
   place, particularly the identity of the participants. 
   The information shared within this group can be shared as long as
   there is no discrimination against the participants and the group.

2. We are here to share our own feelings and experiences; to share knowledge
   and to educate ourselves on the legal, financial, and practical aspects 
   of Separation and Divorce.  We do not give legal or financial advice.

3. We ask that "I" statements are used.

4. We each share the responsibility for making this group work.

5. We accept people, just as they are, and we avoid making judgments.

6. We give everyone an opportunity to share.

7. We have the right to speak and the right to remain silent.

8. We give supportive attention to the person who is speaking and avoid 
   side conversations.

9. We avoid interrupting. If we do break in, we return the conversation 
   to the person who was speaking.

10. We have the right to ask questions and the right to refuse to 
   answer.

11. We are aware of our own feelings and talk about what is present 
   to us now, rather than what life was like for us in the past.

12. We do not discuss group members who are not present.

13. We begin and end our meetings on time.

14. We do not encourage dating within this group.

15. We do encourage forging camaraderie outside of group.

16. We do not allow both former partners to attend the same group.

17. We do not allow attendance under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Note: Even though our goal is to support each person, this particular 
group may not meet your needs. Before deciding this group is not for you, 
however, we hope you will attend at least two meetings.

If you find it necessary to withdraw from the group, we request you to 
speak up at the group meeting. We’d also encourage you to give us  
feedback so that we can continue our work in meeting your needs.