What is Collaborative Practice
If you're in a legal dispute, collaborative law could be a great option to consider. A collaborative law process is when those with legal issues work together, face to face, to come up with a solution that works for everyone. Each party has their own lawyer, who is specially trained to work collaboratively.
Before engaging in the process, all sign an agreement as to how they will conduct their meetings, and agreeing that they are motivated to avoid going to court and to work together to find a solution. Sometimes, outside experts, like financial advisors (known as “financial neutrals” as they work with both parties), coaches or mental health professionals such as psychologists, are brought in to help resolve specific issues. They may work in the background with the parties, or attend the meetings as well.
The best thing about collaborative law is that it lets you have more control over the outcomes. This means you can come up with more creative solutions that work better for everyone involved. Plus, it's usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful than going to court.
How can Collaborative Resolution help me?
Collaborative law is best suited to a wide range of legal areas, including:
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Family law matters such as separations, parenting issues, and financial support issues (spousal maintenance or compensation to one party).
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Employment law disputes including wrongful termination, discrimination claims, and workplace harassment.
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Real estate disputes including property division, boundary disputes, and landlord-tenant issues.
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Business disputes including contract disputes, partnership disputes, and employment contract disputes.
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Probate, family protection and estate disputes including inheritance disputes, contested wills, and trust administration. 6. Medical and insurance disputes.
Collaborative law can be applied to many different areas of law, and is best suited to situations where the parties need to protect existing relationships, and are willing to work together to find a solution that meets everyone's needs.
Free Consultation
Would you like to learn more about how the Collaborative Process can help you and your family? Contact one of these specially trained Collaborative lawyers for a no obligation, free, 20 minute initial consultation. You will learn more about the process and whether it will suit your situation.