The Collaborative Process is designed to accommodate spouses with varying levels of conflict and doesn't require them to be amicable. Collaborative professionals understand that separating couples may not want to be in the same room.

 

While the Collaborative Process is the best choice for a separation process, it does require a commitment from both parties: 

 

• Both spouses commit to engaging honestly and respectfully with coaches, financial specialists, lawyers, and other collaborative professionals. 

• Both spouses commit to complete and open financial and other pertinent information disclosure.

 

What parties can expect in return: 

 

• A respectful resolution to their issues.

• Professional guidance and innovative solutions.

• Team-driven solutions rather than judge or third-party imposed orders.

• A process that addresses the emotional and financial well-being of everyone. 

• Clarity regarding family law and how it applies to the specific situation.

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Why use the Collaborative Process?

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The Collaborative Process shares similarities with mediation and other out-of-court dispute resolution methods as it adopts a non-adversarial approach. However, it transcends the typical settlement-based negotiations in mediation, arbitration, and informal divorces.

 

Couples who have decided to separate often find themselves in a state of impasse, unable to envision a way forward. Communication may have broken down, and discussions about finances seem impossible. The Collaborative Process uniquely focuses on helping parties acquire new and improved communication skills that can be applied in the future. Individuals may also engage in financial planning for the first time in this process.

 

It's common to procrastinate, and few people get around to financial planning. Many clients who have navigated the Collaborative Process discover more effective ways to handle conflicts and create their first financial plans. As a result, they often realize they have more control over their lives and future than they initially thought.

 

The Collaborative Process is transformative and can propel individuals and families toward a brighter, more promising future.

 

The Collaborative Process is a good option for couples:

 

• Regardless of their sexual orientation or gender

• Legally married or common-law

• Who are parents or childless

• Regardless of ethnicity, race, or religion

 

Collaborative divorce can work for most couples if they can drop their adversarial notions of divorce. What’s most important is that both spouses commit to resolving issues together with the support of the collaborative team.

 

If the spouses and lawyers are committed to cooperating with the entire team, a collaborative approach can save time and money and make it easier to start over again after your divorce.