Collaborative Practice promotes respect and keeps parties in control of the process, not judges.

Going through a legal conflict such as divorce doesn't automatically mean having to endure the turmoil that is often associated with it. You now have another choice, Collaborative Practice. Developed as an alternative to traditional divorce, Collaborative Practice is an option for divorcing couples to resolve disputes respectfully without going to court. It offers couples a humane, solutions-based approach to ending a relationship.  .

It differs from the traditional process because Collaborative Practice promotes respect and keeps control of the process with the parties, not a judge. Because clients agree not to go to court, the process is more open and less adversarial. The goal is to enhance communication throughout the process and lay the foundation for a healthier relationship during, and after, the resolution of the dispute.

Collaborative Practice is based on three principles:

1. The parties pledge in writing not to go to court.
2. Both parties engage in an honest exchange of information.
3. Each solution takes into account the highest priorities of the parties and other related persons, such as children or other family members.

Benefits of Collaborative Practice

• Better for your children. Children are given a voice in the process, alleviating potential trauma that sometimes lasts for generations.

• You remain in control. Decision making is directly in the hands of the parties involved in the dispute rather than the hands of a third party, “one size fits all” directive.
  
  
• You enjoy confidentiality. Problems and assets are kept private.
  
  
• Solutions are mutually beneficial. The collaborative process recognizes and understands each client's needs, interests concerns and goals, while allowing all parties to be heard throughout the duration.

Focus on the future. Collaboration changes the notion of a legal conflict from adversarial and win/lose to a problem-solving constructive proces

More information on Collaborative Practice