Collaborative Practice

Collaborative law is a cooperative and creative approach to separation and divorce. Under a collaborative approach, both clients are represented by a lawyer, and both sides agree that if the negotiations break down, new lawyers must be hired before litigation begins. This encourages everyone to concentrate fully on the process and do their best to come to a resolution without going to court.

The process consists of four-way meetings, with a clear agenda of issues to be covered at each meeting.

Participants work to clarify needs and interests and find solutions to common problems in order to come up with a solid, workable separation agreement. Lawyers are there to assist clients in finding those solutions and to explain rights and obligations to their clients.

It is also possible to bring in outside experts such as business valuators, divorce coaches, child care, financial and real estate specialists, psychological experts and any other professionals with experience needed for the particular situation of the family in question.