Collaborative family law is a new approach begun by family lawyers to manage the divorce process in a dignified manner. In this collaborative process the family lawyers and their clients agree in writing to reach settlement without court involvement. They agree to work together to resolve children and financial issues arising out of the separation. In addition, they may enlist other experts, such as child specialists, as part of the team. Utilising their skills in client representation, negotiation and problem-solving, collaborative family lawyers help their clients shape a fair agreement.

Relationship breakdown will always involve financial and emotional costs. The benefits of collaborative family law help minimise those costs for all concerned.

The Process:

  • You and your partner agree with your lawyers to resolve issues without going to court

  • Settlement is reached in '4 way' face to face meetings (2 of you and 2 lawyers)

  • All information and disclosure is provided in the collaborative process

  • You remain in control of the process but with your lawyers there throughout for legal advice and guidance

  • If no settlement can be reached new lawyers will have to be instructed for court proceedings

What is Collaborative Family Law?

  •  You and your spouse/partner are in charge of the process – it is your settlement 

  •  All discussions in 4 way face to face meetings 

  •  Your collaborative lawyer is present at all meetings to help articulate and secure your interests

  •  Discussions focus on your concerns and the interests of each of you and any children 

  •  You and your collaborative lawyers commit to resolving issues without going to court  

How does it work?

  • You and your spouse/partner commit to providing information and disclosure in an open and honest way 

  • Your collaborative lawyer will provide legal advice and guidance throughout the process 

  • Your collaborative lawyer will work in a non-confrontational way with your spouse/partner and their collaborative lawyer to reach resolution

  • Both collaborative lawyers will consider with you and your spouse/partner whether to involve other professionals such as : - 

  • Trained counsellors to help you emotionally and to improve communication with your spouse/partner

  • Financial experts, e.g. if you or your spouse require tax or business advice 

  • Child experts to assist you to explain the process to your children and work through any problems the separation may cause the family

  • Property experts to assist in valuing properties and exploring planning potential etc

Start the Collaborative Process now 

  • Talk to your spouse or partner about collaborative law and share this information

  • Suggest they contact a collaborative lawyer (details of local collaborative lawyers are listed on this site)