The clients and their lawyers work together in a series of meetings without the threat of court proceedings, to find a fair and mutually acceptable solution.

How does the process work?

• At the outset, you and your lawyers will sign an agreement not to commence court proceedings and setting out the objectives of the process.
  
• You will agree to be respectful, cooperative and truthful and work together to find amicable solutions.
  
• There will be a series of four-way meetings between you and your respective lawyers during which information will be exchanged and negotiations will be entered into.
  
• You will be encouraged to find creative and individual solutions tailored to your family's circumstances.
  
• Once agreement has been reached, your lawyers will draw up a settlement agreement which will usually be submitted to the court for approval and made into an order.

Why choose the collaborative process?

• You retain control of the process by participating at each stage.
• You each have your own legal adviser with you throughout.
• You avoid potentially acrimonious, stressful and protracted court proceedings.
  You make decisions and avoid the uncertainty of a court-imposed timetable and outcome.
• The process can help to preserve family relationships in the future.
  
  

    Click here to email Jeremy Levison about Collaborative Law.