When you think of divorce, you probably think of bitter arguments over property and/or children that leave both parties upset and angry. However, there is an alternative – Collaborative Law.

The Collaborative Law Practice model is based on three principles designed to provide a reasonable approach to divorce:

• A pledge not to go to court;
• An honest exchange of information by both spouses; and
• A solution that takes the highest priorities of both spouses and their children into account.

How is Collaborative Law different than conventional divorce?  Both spouses pledge to reach an agreement without going to court.  Everyone consents in writing to be part of a respectful process that leads to an out-of-court resolution.  The ultimate goal is to solve problems together and avoid a court battle.  Open communication is the best way to do that and this model encourages face-to-face meetings that focus on problem solving, not the airing of grievances.  The key to Collaborative Law is mutual respect.  Discussions are likely to be more productive when respect is given and received.

Collaborative Law also offers spouses a supportive approach.  Each person and their lawyer work as a team that can grow to include mental health professionals, child specialists and financial consultants to deal with a variety of issues and set goals for the future.

By encouraging respect and cooperation, Collaborative Law Practice helps parties resolve their marriage with dignity and civility and when there are children it keeps family bonds intact so that everyone can have a healthy, new beginning.   The focus is on the future and preparing individuals for their new lives.

Collaborative Law is the constructive alternative to conventional, often-destructive divorce.   It’s meant to protect the interests of each party and that of their children, if applicable, and lead to an agreement that everyone can live with.

Do you have questions about this approach to ending a marriage with minimal damage?  You can contact Mary Foley Panszi at mpanszi@foleypanszilaw.com.