What is Collaborative Law?

The Collaborative Family Law Process is about cooperation, not confrontation. It is problem solving with collaborative lawyers where you and your spouse try to understand each other. You and your spouse are responsible for information gathering and solutions.

• Both collaborative lawyers help you and your spouse to:
  
  • find and focus on your common interests;
  • understand each other's concerns;
  • exchange information;
  • explore a wide range of possible choices; and
  • reach solutions acceptable to both of you.
• You, your spouse and both collaborative lawyers work as a team.
• It generally takes much less time and money to settle matters using the Collaborative Family Law Process.
• You, your spouse and both collaborative lawyers sign a contract agreeing not to go to court.
• The Collaborative Family Law Process uses informal discussions and conferences to settle all issues.
• In the Collaborative Family Law Process both clients will:
  
  • treat each other withrespect;
  • listen to each others' perspectives, interests and concerns;
  • explore all possible choices
  • let go of the past in order to focus on the future.