The goal of Collaborative Law is to enable parties involved in a dissolution of marriage and other family law matters, each represented by a lawyer, to resolve their differences in a non-adversarial and dignified setting using techniques committed to mutual resolution and reduced conflict.

The participants agree to voluntarily disclose all relevant information and to cooperatively resolve all issues outside of litigation. Settlement is accomplished through informal discussions, settlement conferences, mediations and other amicable alternatives.

If a settlement cannot be reached, both lawyers must withdraw from the case. The lawyers will assist the parties in finding new counsel who can pursue their case in court, and will work to make a smooth transition for their clients. This takes the threat of litigation out of the process and helps ensure that the process will not be rejected lightly once undertaken.

The participants agree to voluntarily disclose all relevant information and to cooperatively resolve all issues outside of litigation. Settlement is accomplished through informal discussions, settlement conferences, mediations and other amicable alternatives. The use of experts may be necessary and should be encouraged where their involvement can assist in the collaborative process. Collaborative Family Lawyers work toward settling your case rather than preparing for and conducting a trial, that may result in savings, both financial and emotional, to you and your family.

A number of Florida Fellows have received advanced training in the Collaborative Law Process. Search our database for a Collaborative Law Trained fellow near you.

For more information about collaborative law and to locate a collaborative law professional in your area, go to www.collaborativecouncilflorida.com.

Further links regarding Collaborative Law practice groups in Florida:
Academy of Collaborative Matrimonial Lawyers: http://www.academyofcollaborativedivorce.org/acd-lawyer-directory