WHAT IS COLLABORATIVE LAW
Collaborative Practice is a new but tried and successful option for divorcing and separating couples or civil partners to resolve disputes respectfully and equitably without going to court.
The aim of Collaborative Practice is to help the couple focus on their most important goals, especially the children, throughout the process.
The end result is a more effective, targeted and productive way to resolve disputes.
WHAT DISTINGUISHES COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE FROM OTHER METHODS OF FAMILY DISPUTE RESOLUTION?
Collaborative Practice promotes respect and keeps clients in control of the process, not lawyers and judges.
It addresses each couple's unique concerns, as opposed to going to court where the process is driven by the general procedure applied to all.
Because clients agree not to go to court, the process is more open and less adversarial. The goal is to enhance communication through the process and lay the foundation for a healthier relationship after the divorce or separation.
COMMUNICATION
One barrier in trying to resolve matters in court is a lack of effective communication between couples. In the Collaborative process, couples learn a framework for effectively communicating their concerns and goals.
What has been the experience of couples who have used the Collaborative Process?
In a recent survey by the Resolution it was reported that 83% of cases settled on all issues, which is a very high settlement figure.
One couple commented; "We were both very pleased that the process existed because it. ..was a kind of embodiment of the kind of divorce we wanted."
For more testimonials about the process please click here.
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE THE COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE INSTEAD OF GOING TO COURT?
In Collaborative, you and your spouse or partner, agree not to go to court. This gives you and them control of the process and outcome. In the court setting, the judge makes the final decision. In other words you both decide the outcome rather than having a total stranger decide it for you!
