What is Collaborative Law?
Collaborative Law is a form of non-court dispute resolution (NCDR). It differs to the traditional way of dealing with family disputes. Rather than each person instructing their own lawyer to communicate and negotiate on their behalf in an attempt to reach a settlement, they each appoint collaboratively trained lawyers to work with them together in a series of meetings.
Is there a timetable?
No, there are no strict timetables like the ones that can be imposed during court proceedings - the parties are in control, setting agendas and prioritising what’s important to them with their collaborative lawyers providing support and advice throughout the process.
What if we have an issue about finances?
If necessary, other professionals can be brought into the meetings to provide financial, relationship or other help.
What happens in the meetings?
In Collaborative Law, there’s no exchanging of correspondence. Everything is discussed in face-to-face meetings and all parties make a commitment that they will try to resolve any issues without going to court. This ensures that everyone enters the process with a willingness to find solutions through agreement.
How many meetings will we need?
Sometimes only one or two meetings are needed, sometimes more, depending on what issues arise.
Won’t it be expensive?
Not necessarily. Avoiding court involvement and the added financial and emotional expense that that entails can be avoided by using the Collaborative route.
At Sampson Coward, we have three Resolution trained Collaborative lawyers ready to help you. To find out more about Collaborative Law and whether it’s right for you, phone 01722 410664 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
By Lin Cumberlin