Cowboy Logic in Divorce: Charmaine Panko on Common-Sense Family Law

In this inspiring episode, Mandy Pullen Barr and Deanna Coyle welcome Charmaine Panko, collaborative family lawyer, mediator, and founder of Panko Collaborative Law & Mediation in Saskatchewan, Canada. Charmaine shares how her unexpected path into family law became her life’s mission: helping families navigate conflict with dignity, empathy, and common sense (or as she calls it, cowboy logic, thanks to her practical-minded father!).

Charmaine passionately unpacks the collaborative law model, where lawyers, child specialists, mental health professionals, and financial neutrals come together under one roof — not as adversaries, but as problem solvers — to design customized solutions for families, especially those with unique needs or high-conflict dynamics.

She challenges the outdated adversarial system, advocating for future models that respect the individuality of each family, as well as that of each child. Charmaine’s work is about more than just legal resolutions; it’s about shaping peaceful futures, reducing trauma, and empowering families to make decisions that truly reflect their values.

We also delve into her role as an educator and mentor, exploring why public education matters and how helping others, including clients and younger professionals, fuels her passion for transforming the field of family law.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a more human, heart-centered approach to divorce — one where the children’s future, family well-being, and common sense take center stage.

Contact Charmaine Panko

Email: cpanko@commonsenselawyer.com

Website: https://commonsenselawyer.com/

Contact Deanna and Mandy

Email: concierge@vestadivorce.com

Call: (877) 355-7649