Collaborative law is another approach to resolving divorce-related issues. In a collaborative law approach, the primary requirement is that both parties must agree to participate and not to end up in court. The voluntary process is initiated when the couple signs a contract (called the “participation agreement”), binding each other to the process and disqualifying their respective lawyer’s right to represent either one in any future family related litigation. Another requirement is that the lawyers for both sides must be fully trained Collaborative Practice lawyers.
Anna Boulman has been trained in collaborative law methods and approaches. As with every matter, our firm is committed to achieving solutions that are in the best interests of our clients. And in collaborative law, Ms. Boulman combines her skills and experience with those of therapists, coaches, financial advisors, and other attorneys and professionals in order to achieve those results.
What is Collaborative Divorce?
A customized, respectful alternative to traditional adversarial divorce is available to you and your spouse. Collaborative divorce or collaborative separation refers to the use of an out-of-court process that addresses the emotional, financial and legal issues that arise as your family transitions from one household to two.
Collaborative divorce may seem similar to mediation and other out-of-court resolution methods, the key difference is the written agreement the spouses and lawyers sign at the beginning.
Unlike going to court where a judge may listen to both sides and then hand down a decision – which neither party may like because no one really ‘wins’ in Family Law – the Collaborative approach entails mutual problem-solving by all the parties which in turn leads to the final separation agreement.
Collaborative Divorce: A Creative Path Forward
If you are looking for a way to navigate separation that prioritizes cooperation over conflict, Collaborative Law offers a structured, respectful alternative to traditional litigation.
Unlike the adversarial nature of a courtroom, the collaborative approach shifts the focus from “winning” to problem-solving.
How the Collaborative Process Works
The foundation of this method is a mutual commitment to staying out of court. Here is how the framework supports a healthier resolution:
- The “No-Court” Agreement: Both parties and their lawyers sign a formal contract agreeing that if negotiations fail and litigation begins, the current lawyers must withdraw. This ensures everyone is 100% committed to reaching a settlement.
- Four-Way Meetings: Most of the work happens in face-to-face sessions involving both clients and their respective lawyers. These meetings follow a structured agenda to ensure every concern—from finances to co-parenting—is addressed.
- A Support Team: Depending on your needs, you can bring in neutral experts like financial planners or child specialists to provide clarity without the pressure of a trial.
Why Choose Collaboration?
Choosing this path allows you to maintain control over your future rather than leaving life-altering decisions to a judge.
| Feature | Traditional Litigation | Collaborative Law |
| Control | A judge makes the final decisions. | You and your partner decide the outcome. |
| Atmosphere | Adversarial and high-stress. | Cooperative and solution-oriented. |
| Privacy | Public court records. | Private and confidential sessions. |
| Communication | Filtered through legal documents. | Direct, honest, and facilitated. |
Focused on the Future
By removing the threat of “going to court,” the collaborative process fosters an environment where creative solutions can thrive. It is designed to preserve relationships—especially important when children are involved—and to ensure that both parties move forward with dignity and a clear plan.