Collaborative Practice

Collaborative practice focuses on reaching a settlement and reducing the time and costs involved in getting a divorce.

Collaborative practice has two basic principles: a commitment not to use judicial decision-making, and the support of a professional team. Both parties have their own attorneys and may be assisted by other professionals such as divorce coaches, financial planners, mediators and child specialists.

If the negotiations break down, or if either party acts in ways that preclude a settlement, all members of the collaborative team—including both attorneys—must withdraw from the case.

Advantages

• There is less stress and animosity than a court trial.
• Past differences and unproductive behaviors are left behind.
• Parenting decisions put the interests of children first.
• Both parties feel more in control.
• When possible, parties confer with the same neutral experts on parenting and financial matters, avoiding the cost and potential conflict of separate advisors.
• The dignity of the family is respected.
• The privacy of the family is preserved.
• Compliance with the final settlement is usually better.
• You and your spouse reach an agreement that works best for your family.

Selecting the Best Divorce Process for You