What Is Collaborative Family Law?
Collaborative family law is a new approach to dealing with separation and divorce issues that doesn't involve the courts. If you adopt this process you and your respective lawyers formally agree (i.e. sign a written agreement) to work together to find a mutually acceptable and fair solution to your financial and child related issues - without involving the courts.
This approach is based on a team effort. You, your former partner, your lawyers and other professionals where required work together to resolve whatever is in dispute e.g. child support, division of assets or parenting of the children.
If your lawyers are unable to get you and your former partner to reach an agreement and you want to take the matter to court, they must resign from the case and you will need to hire new lawyers.
What Are The Advantages Of Collaborative Family Law?
- Promotes co-operation between you and your former partner
- You both have legal advisors at every stage of the process
- Clients are often encouraged to bring in different experts where appropriate such as child specialists, counsellors, accountants and financial advisers
- Generally saves you time and money
- You are guaranteed that your lawyers will do their best to reach a fair agreement and try to keep you out of court
- Litigation can never be threatened
- Likely to produce an agreement that meets both your own needs
What Is The Difference Between Collaborative Law And Mediation?
Mediation involves a neutral third person (a mediator) that facilitates discussion between you and your former partner and does not give legal advice.
In a collaborative process there are 4 people involved in all meetings:
- You
- Your former partner
- Your lawyer
- Your former partner's lawyer
What Are The Key Features Of Collaborative Law?
- You, your former partner and both collaborative lawyers work as a team versus 'opposing parties'
- You, your spouse and both collaborative lawyers sign a contract agreeing not to go to court
- The Collaborative Family Law Process uses informal discussions and conferences to settle all issues
- Collaborative Divorce offers separating couples an inter-disciplinary way of dealing with separation and divorce
- Offers a dispute resolution model that provides a structure for both emotional support and legal guidance
What Are The Differences Between A Collaborative And Traditional Approach?
In a collaborative approach:
- Both parties agree to stay out of court
- The emphasis is on creating solutions that address the needs and values of the whole family
- The main goal is to reach a fair, equitable and comprehensive settlement of all issues outside of a court room
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