FAQ’s

Even for people who are having difficulty talking or working together, a positive Collaborative process is still possible. The Collaborative process may be a good option for you if any of the characteristics noted under the View More tab match with your goals or issues. Characteristics that may be a good fit with Collaborative Practice…

No. Cost savings can be realized by utilizing the expertise of other collaboratively-trained professionals. All collaborative professionals work as a team (on an ‘as required’ basis) to address client needs and goals, which otherwise would need to be addressed by lawyers alone who may not have the same degree of expertise in a particular area…

In addition to both parties benefiting from their respective, collaboratively-trained lawyer’s legal expertise, on an as needed basis, the Collaborative Process can involve interdisciplinary professionals who form part of the collaborative team and work in a neutral manner..  Such professionals are also collaboratively-trained and include:  separation/divorce coaches (e.g.,  registered psychologists, social workers, etc.), child specialists (registered…

No. The Collaborative Process is focused on reaching a mutually acceptable and enduring settlement in a timely manner. Collaborative lawyers and professionals (as applicable) jointly work together, taking into account the respective needs and interests of the parties involved. In contrast with other options, the Collaborative Process can be more cost-efficient and In contrast with…

Mediation involves one neutral third-party (the Mediator) who guides the parties through the separation/divorce process by assisting the couple to address the issues that need to be resolved. Due to their neutral role, mediators cannot advocate for or provide legal advice to either party. Within the Collaborative Process, each party has legal representation from their…

Although approximately 90% of all non-Collaborative family law cases are eventually settled out of court, the litigation process is still adversarial, which differs greatly from the Collaborative process. Even though Collaborative and non-Collaborative processes can lead to a settlement, the Collaborative Process tends to manage, rather than ramp up, conflict throughout the process. For couples…

Unlike the Collaborative Process, litigation is typically adversarial in nature and often based on a ‘win/lose’ foundation. Each lawyer tends to focus on getting a better deal than the other party. Litigation-based negotiations and agreements are often restricted by formulas, rules of thumb, governing powers and ultimatums. Within court-based approaches, decisions are made by a…