Collaborative Practice is a voluntary process in which parties settle disputes without resort to litigation. In Collaborative Practice: 1. The parties sign a collaborative participation agreement describing the nature and scope of the matter; 2. The parties voluntarily disclose all information which is relevant and material to the matter that must be decided; 3. The parties agree to use good faith efforts in their negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable settlement; 4. Each party must be represented by a lawyer whose representation terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding; 5. The parties may engage financial professionals and professionals who support the emotional, communication, and parenting components of the divorce,* whose engagement terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding; and 6. The parties may jointly engage other experts as needed. In Collaborative Practice, each person, including professionals, commits to: • Negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution without having courts decide issues. • Maintain open communication and information sharing. • Create shared solutions acknowledging the highest priorities of all. * These professionals may be called mental health professionals, communication and family professionals, divorce coaches, communication specialists, or similar terms depending on country or
- jcanderson7