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COLLABORATIVE LAW
Minnesota attorney, Stu Webb, developed this
alternative process for resolving family issues in 1990 to give
spouses a way to end their marriages cooperatively, face-to-face,
with the help and guidance of attorneys, but without going to court.
He has said, “Collaborative law is the art and practice of settling
cases with legal counsel, but without court intervention at any
stage.” |
COLLABORATIVE LAW
Collaborative law is an interest-based dispute resolution
process. If you must get divorced, it is the least harmful way to do so.
The separating couple and their attorneys sign an agreement eschewing
litigation. Each spouse hires a collaboratively trained attorney to help
them negotiate an agreement which is tailored to meet their needs. All
negotiations take place in a series of four-way conferences between the
parties and their attorneys. This model provides a safe environment for
productive discussion between spouses. The parties and their attorneys
work together in a cooperative effort to resolve their issues. Different
solutions are discussed until the spouses reach a consensus. The focus is
on the family and the needs of the divorcing couple and their children.
Clients craft their own agreement, instead of allowing a third party to
dictate how a family will coexist. Each agreement reflects the needs and
interests of the family, avoiding most of the acrimony experienced in the
traditional litigation process.
Other experts/ professionals are used as needed to help the parties reach
an acceptable agreement. Duplication of costs is avoided. For example, if
a real property appraisal is required, the parties might agree to use one
appraiser. If the parties are stuck over determining an appropriate
visitation schedule, they might jointly consult with a child psychologist.
Everyone works toward an agreement which works best for the family.
I utilize Collaborative Law in my practice, because I believe in the
process and its many benefits. As a founding member of the Monroe County
Collaborative Law group, I have seen first hand the positive impact that
we as Collaborative Law attorneys have made in our clients lives.
To improve my effectiveness as a Collaborative Law Attorney, I have
participated in extensive training through a series of accredited
Collaborative Law seminars and classes. It is important to the
Collaborative Law group that its members participate in ongoing training.
Guidelines for the collaborative process, an outline of issues you may
want to consider and a typical
retainer agreement
may be accessed by clicking the links provided. Articles which further
explain the collaborative process may be accessed by clicking onto the
link for the
Association of Collaborative Family Law Attorneys or the
ICAP web site. I will be pleased to speak with you concerning any
questions you may have about collaborative law. Let my knowledge and
expertise work for you.
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