What Is Collaborative Practice?

Collaborative practice is a form of dispute resolution used by married, de facto or same sex couples when separating. In collaborative practice, each partner works with a collaboratively-trained lawyer to co-operatively resolve their legal, financial and emotional issues after separating without going to court.

Unlike other forms of dispute resolution like litigation in court, collaborative practice focusses on resolving family law disputes with minimal conflict. Focussing on problem-solving to reach  a mutually acceptable settlement without court proceedings, the collaborative process uses other professionals such as accountants, financial advisers, mediators and psychologists to provide professional advice. This provides many benefits to the couple and the children involved.

The collaborative process offers a way to resolve separation disagreements with dignity and respect. The collaborative lawyers work together to shape an agreement making considered decisions for the benefit of the family as a whole.