Collaborative Practice
Collaborative resolution is a respectful option through which participants can resolve family and other civil issues without litigation. It is a dignified process based on the participants' agreement not to go to court, to honestly and openly exchange information, and to seek an interest and goal-oriented resolution that best fits their collective needs. Collaborative resolution helps to promote this result. Likewise, business associates may retain friendly ties long after a business dissolves. Families remain families long after a separation or divorce.
How do I know if Collaborative Law is the right direction for our family? If the following values are important to you, Collaborative Practice may be a viable option:
- I want to maintain a respectful tone, even when we disagree.
- Our children are a mutual priority.
- My needs and my spouse's needs deserve equal respect, and I will listen objectively.
- I believe that working creatively and cooperatively solves issues.
- It is important to reach beyond today's frustration and pain to plan for the future.
- I can behave ethically toward my spouse.
- I choose to maintain control of the divorce process with my spouse, and not relegate it to the courts.
- I might not be happy with my spouse or partner right now, but I don't want to destroy our children and/or spend all of our joint or individual money fighting to get a resolution.