1. What is collaborative practice?
2. What distinguishes collaborative practice from other methods for separation?
3. How does it work?
4. Who is Collaborative Divorce for?
5. What are the benefits of Collaborative Divorce?
1. What is collaborative practice?
Collaborative Practice is a new option for a separating couple to resolve disputes respectfully and equitably without going to court. The goal of collaborative practice is to help divorcing and separating couples to focus on their most important goals, especially children, throughout the divorce process. The end result is a more efficient, targeted and productive way to resolve disputes.
2. What distinguishes collaborative practice from other methods for separation?
Collaborative Practice promotes respect and keeps spouses in control of the process, not judges. It addresses each couple’s unique concerns, as opposed to litigation which is driven by the general rule of law meant to apply to all. 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 after the divorce.
3. How does it work?
Collaborative law utilizes specialists that use their areas of expertise to address children’s needs and the emotional and financial needs of a separation. It creates a safe environment for both parties – without the threat of court. It provides a structure for communication – that considers each person’s needs. The parties share information that allows good decisions to be made. It focuses on a creative and respectful approach that helps clients reach a mutually agreeable settlement.
4. Who is Collaborative Divorce for?
• People going through a divorce or separation who want a civilized, respectful resolution of the issues and are willing to focus on solutions rather than on blame or revenge.
• People who want to maintain a productive working relationship with their former spouses or partners.
• People who will be co-parenting and want to keep children’s interests at the forefront, i.e., protecting children from the negative impact associated with bitter litigation.
• People who want to control decision-making over rearing and/or financial arrangement rather than turning it over to a stranger (judge).
• People who place as much or more value on the relationship that will exist in the restructured family as on obtaining maximum resources.
• People who value privacy.
5. What are the benefits of Collaborative Divorce?
Better for children: Gives children a voice in the process, alleviating potential future trauma sometimes for generations.
Private: Keeps problems and assets private.
Less stressful: Improves communication between parties. Keeps control of process with the spouses. Promotes respect and healthier long-term communications.
Focus on the future: It is a prospective look to anticipate issues, set up team guided structure for resolution of such issues and insure a smooth transition to separated relationships.
Saves time: The process is more efficient, productive and targeted because of the unique structure of the collaborative team.
Effective Communication Skills: Communication skills acquired during the collaborative process may have positive applications outside of the divorce or separation.
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