Benefits of Collaborative Practice

It can be used if you were married; in a de facto or same-sex relationship
It can be used if you are thinking about entering into a marriage or de facto relationship
You can tackle all of the issues in the one process, whether they are about the care of the children, property division or other financial issues
Unlike mediation, both lawyers are always present so that you get to hear the legal advice your partner is getting and vice versa
You can call upon the expertise of other professionals, not just lawyers, who can help you reach an agreement
You keep control of the process
It creates a cooperative and non-adversarial environment
It addresses the family’s questions and concerns
It reduces conflict, anxiety and uncertainty for all parties
It addresses interim and long-term solutions
You can avoid court
It preserves dignity and self-respect
It conserves financial and emotional resources
It generally results in legally binding agreements or consent orders
It preserves privacy
It usually saves time and money