Collaborative Practice is a voluntary process in which parties settle disputes without resort to litigation.

In a Collaborative Process:

  1. The parties sign a collaborative participation agreement describing the nature and scope of the matter
  2. The parties voluntarily disclose all information which is relevant and material to the matter that must be decided
  3. The parties agree to use good faith efforts in their negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable settlement
  4. Each party must be represented by a lawyer whose representation terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding;
  5. The parties may engage mental health professionals, communication and family professionals and financial professionals whose engagement terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding
  6. The parties may jointly engage other experts as needed                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Collaborative Practice provides you and your spouse or partner with the support and guidance of your own lawyers without going to court. Additionally, Collaborative Practice allows you the benefit of divorce coaches, child and financial specialists all working together with you on your team.

In Collaborative Practice, each person, including professionals, commits to: 

  • Negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution without having courts decide issues. 
  • Maintain open communication and information sharing.