What is Collaborative Law?
Collaborative Law:
- Is a process of resolving issues without going to court.
- Uses time tested and innovative problem solving approaches to resolve disputes.
- Is guided by what is important to you. Collaborative professionals ask you about your goals.
- Requires transparent sharing of information.
- Is voluntary; never court ordered.
- Has a proven track record of positive results.
To maintain the problem-solving focus of the process, the clients agree in writing that Collaborative professionals cannot assist clients in court if it becomes a contested matter; instead, clients will be provided assistance transitioning to new court-based attorneys.
Collaborative Law Practice
Divorce and separation are life-altering events which can be addressed using a cooperative problem solving approach known as Collaborative Practice. An individualized team is formed based on the specific needs of each client, consisting of specially trained attorneys and an array of neutral professionals such as financial specialists, coaches, child experts and mediators. This comprehensive model allows for flexibility in size – stretching from two to five members depending upon what kind of support would best suit their situation.
Collaborative Law is appropriate for family related matters, including, but not limited to:
- Divorce
- Separation
- Post-decree issues
- Paternity (unmarried parents)
- 3rd Party Custody
- Grandparent access to grandchildren
- Pre-nuptial or Post-nuptial Agreements
- Adoption
- Wills and Estates
- Probate
- Addressing issues for families of children with disabilities (e.g., financial planning for the life span, child-sensitive parenting time arrangements, building a strong foundation for co-parenting, conservatorships and guardianships)
- Family-owned business restructuring