Collaborative law enables the parties to separate with dignity. Collaborative
Family Law is ideal if you and your separating partner:

• Share an interest in protecting your children from the harm litigation can
  inflict
• Place a high value on personal responsibility in resolving conflict
• Are able to focus on a positive solution for the entire family
• Want to preserve a respectful working relationship after the process is over
• Recognize the need to disclose full and accurate information about financial
  issues

The advantages of Collaborative Law

You retain control. Though you each have a lawyer, you and your spouse take
responsibility for shaping the settlement as key members of the team.

Children come first and their needs will take priority and will be the focus
of the group. There is no easy way to end a relationship but by working in a
climate of co-operation and treating each other with respect, you create an
environment that benefits you and your children.

Your lawyer is by your side. You craft the settlement co-operatively with
your spouse while benefiting from your lawyer’s advocacy, problem-solving and
negotiating skills. Face-to-face meetings in the presence of lawyers make
negotiations direct and efficient and allow for mutually created resolutions.

You focus on settlement. Removing the threat of “going to court” reduces
anxiety, stress and fear, thereby helping you focus on finding a mutually
beneficial solution. An atmosphere of respect helps preserve self esteem and
open communication allows both of you to express your needs and build a basis
for effective problem-solving in the future.

You get more from your resources. The collaborative process is usually less
costly and time-consuming than litigation. When you reach an agreement, it can
be finalized more quickly and you don’t get bogged down for months waiting for a
court date.

You negotiate a settlement that works for your unique situation.
Every family is unique and every family deserves a customized solution to the
issues raised in their separation or divorce. The collaborative process produces
final agreements that are frequently more detailed and complete than any order
that would be issued by a judge after a contested court proceeding.