Why Choose Collaborative?

What is Collaborative Practice?

Collaborative Practice is a new way in which a divorcing couple or people ending non-marital relationships and trained professionals work together as a team to resolve disputes respectfully without going to court.

Who are the trained professionals?

Professionals licensed in the areas of Law, Mental health, Finance and other selected specialties who have been trained in the Collaborative Practice process. They are dedicated to working with a divorcing couple in a cooperative and respectful manner to reach a settlement that will last.

How does Collaborative Practice work?

Attorneys, Mental Health professionals, Financial consultants, and other professionals (as needed) assist the divorcing couple in dealing with issues through cooperative strategies rather than adversarial techniques and litigation. They create a safer environment for difficult conversations.

Each party is represented and guided by his or her own counsel who is an experienced divorce attorney. Joint meetings focus on reaching a settlement that meets the legitimate needs of both parties. Specialists are called in as needed (1) to coach the parties to stay focused on the issues and not get "stuck" in the process, (2) to identify, evaluate and work through the financial goals and concerns of the parties, and (3) to identify other areas needing special attention (children's issues, parenting plans, etc.). When children are involved, their needs are placed first. Conferences are used to exchange or to clarify information and to brainstorm possible options for resolution. The couple and the team of professionals focus on educating the group with underlying information, each spouse's interests and possible solutions. Each person's needs are identified and considered openly. Information necessary to make good decisions is shared and options are generated and discussed together in a respectful environment. Through this process, a reasonable settlement can be fashioned which will last.

What distinguishes Collaborative Practice from other methods of divorce?

Commitment to the collaborative model provides a private, more cooperative process which creates the opportunity for individuals to make well-informed and appropriate decisions for themselves and their family. Decisions made this way are especially beneficial to children. Parents who cooperate regarding their children’s needs, protect them from the hostility and intrusion of the court process. The collaborative model facilitates joint decision-making to create satisfactory and long-lasting solutions. Collaborative Practice provides a customized team of professionals to address legal, emotional and financial topics. Collaboration during divorce can also save money when compared to a litigated dissolution.

What are the key benefits of Collaborative Practice?

Collaborative Practice allows you and your spouse to be in charge as the collaborative team helps you develop resolutions to your problems as you transition to a two-residence family. The solutions are designed to be mutually satisfying and durable because you have created them. Children will benefit from caring, loving and involved relationships with both parents. The professionals on your team will contribute information and ideas which will enable your to reach thoughtful and focused solutions relevant to your unique situation. Through the coaching, couples learn new tools for effective problem solving and ongoing co-parenting.

When you choose to participate in the collaborative process personal lives will remain private and your integrity will remain preserved. You will learn skills to manage conflict and you will control of the outcome of your situation. Your children will have a healthy model for problem solving, conflict resolution, and settling disputes as they grow into adulthood.

The foundation of Collaborative Practice is articulated in its Principles and Guidelines. The clients and their attorneys agree that they will not go to court. If the clients can't reach an agreement, the attorneys and other professionals involved withdraw and litigation attorneys take the dispute to court.