Collaborative practice is the process where partners and their lawyers sit down and resolve their family law issues without ligation and without going to court. It is a process of engaging in open communication and provides parties with the support and control they need to resolve their family law matter. Collaborative practice can only be used if both parties to a dispute agree to this form of dispute resolution.

If you are wondering if your case is suitable for collaborative practice, complete the checklist below to find out if this DA Family Lawyers solution is right for you.

Collaborative practice checklist

If you answer “yes” to most of the following questions, Collaborative practice might be the right process for your situation:

• Do you believe you and your partner are able to cooperate to resolve financial and parenting issues arising from your separation?
• Do you believe you and your partner are able to consider compromise solutions to resolve financial and parenting issues?
• Do you feel there is a need to improve your communication with your partner, especially over matters involving your children?
• Do you want to avoid the expense and potential animosity of court?
• Are you looking for a process that respects your values?
• Are there positive aspects of your relationship with your partner that you want to preserve?
• Do you want to have control over the process of reaching an agreement?
• Do you want the outcome to be decided by you and your partner, rather than a judge?

There is a time when collaborative law will not be the right option to resolve your dispute:

• If the main objective of either partner is to seek revenge or to have their day in court.
• If you (or your partner) has a fixed outcome in mind which is not open for discussion or change.
• Either partner thinks that the process will allow them to outmaneuver the other.
• Either partner does not want to provide full and frank financial disclosure to the other.
• There is a history of domestic or family violence or other abuse.
• If court proceedings are already on foot.

DA Family Lawyers in Brisbane can help you determine if collaborative law is right for your family law matter. If collaborative law is not right for you, we also offer other dispute resolution services and can provide you with legal advice in respect of the avenues you can take with your dispute.

Contact DA Family Lawyers for more information and guidance about resolving your family law matter.