Collaboration in family law involves resolving family law issues, concerns, and disputes with the support of lawyers and other experts as needed, in a series of meetings, much like a mediation. The family law collaborative process involves both parties and their lawyers agreeing and committing to finding an out-of-court solution. Another is that parties work through the steps towards a resolution, including all planning and advice given, with their lawyers and the other party present. Through family law mediation in Sydney, I can be involved in any collaboration process. Where it may become particularly apparent and relevant is where there is a dispute about say, a property value, whereupon expert valuations are required.
So Why Choose Collaborative Practice?
Control & Transparency – The parties retain control over decision-making instead of relying on a judge.
Confidentiality – All discussions and agreements remain private, ensuring discretion.
Cost-Effective – Resolving disputes collaboratively often reduces legal costs compared to lengthy court proceedings.
Less Adversarial – This process fosters cooperation rather than confrontation, benefiting ongoing family relationships.
Access to Experts – Professionals such as child specialists, financial advisors, valuers, and accountants provide expert guidance as needed.
Tailored Agreements – The solutions are customized to meet the specific needs of both parties and their children.
How Does It Work?
A collaborative approach brings professionals together to support resolution. Parties consult experts like child specialists, counselors, and financial advisers, while lawyers focus on negotiations. As a mediator, I help untangle disputes and guide discussions.
The mediation process begins with both parties and their lawyers signing a participation agreement, committing to transparency and cooperation. Regular meetings encourage open dialogue and problem-solving.
Neutral experts provide financial insights, while specialists assist with parenting plans and emotional support. Like mediation, this approach keeps parties in control, avoiding court intervention.
In a collaborative family law process, the clients and their lawyers agree to work together to find a fair solution to whatever financial or child-related issues need to be addressed, again as in mediation generally, without involving the court.
Akin to the more typical mediation process, the family law party in a collaborative process remains in control of the process.
A collaborative approach permits for a greater degree of co-operation between a range of professionals. Parties involved in a collaborative process will have access to the skills of child specialists, counsellors, accountants, valuers, and financial advisers. All of these professionals are able to bring their expertise to the process, when necessary, thereby freeing up the lawyers to concentrate on helping their clients in the negotiations and focusing on the issues of priority to them. It also greatly assists me as the Mediator to more effectively untangle the areas in dispute.
Reaching Resolution
By maintaining structured, solution-focused discussions, the family law collaborative process helps parties reach fair and sustainable agreements. This method particularly benefits cases involving children by prioritizing their well-being while guiding parents toward mutually agreeable resolutions. Open communication and mutual respect strengthen co-parenting relationships and promote long-term cooperation.
Find a Peaceful Solution with Collaborative Law
Ready to resolve family matters without the stress of court battles? With family law collaborative practice, you can achieve fair solutions through open dialogue and professional support.
📞 Call Neil Jackson today at 0410 403 965
📩 Or book a consultation online