What Processes Exist for Resolving Disputes?

Collaborative Family Law Process:

The Collaborative Family Law Process is notable for three key elements—a commitment not to go to court and a requirement that the Collaborative Family Lawyers withdraw if a party chooses to go to court; transparency of process and voluntary discovery; and, interest-based negotiation.

This process allows open communication between the parties and their attorneys, and allows the parties to make agreements on all issues that need to be addressed. This process can work if both parties are committed to achieving an agreement that addresses both parties’ interests and the interests of their family. Both parties have attorneys; and almost all settlement discussions take place in four-way meetings where both parties and both attorneys are present. Court-ordered mechanisms for the production of information are not available as well as other court-provided remedies. In addition, with no court-ordered deadlines, the parties and attorneys must be diligent in creating a schedule and sticking to it in order to move the case forward to a conclusion.

Some Useful Documents:

• What Mental Health Professionals Say About Collaborative Family Law Process
• What the Media Says About Collaborative Family Law Process
• What Individuals Say About Collaborative Family Law Process
• Collaborative Family Law Survey Results
• Collaborative Divorce Professionals Alliance