Collaborative Practice is a new way for a couple seeking to divorce to work with trained professionals to resolve disputes respectfully, without litigation. Each client has the support, protection, and guidance of his or her own lawyer, while working with their spouse, spouse's attorney and appropriate consultants in various fields.

While Collaborative lawyers are always a part of Collaboration, child specialists, financial specialists and divorce coaches as part of the clients' divorce team. The clients then have the option of starting their divorce with the professionals with whom they feel most comfortable. Then the clients choose any other professionals they need. Therefore, the clients benefit throughtout collaboration from the assistance and support of all their chosen professionals.

Although Collaborative Practice comes in several models, it is distinguished from traditional litigation by its core elements. These elements are set out in a contractual commitment among the clients and their chosen collaborative professionals to:

• negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement without using court to decide any issues for the clients
• withdrawal of the professionals if either client goes to court
• engage in open communication and information sharing, and
• create shared solution that take into account the highest priorities of both clients

For more information about Collaborative Law and Collaborative Practice contact Mr. Heidelberger at elliot@heidelbergerlaw.com or 630-289-4000.