Originally, the process was developed to be used for divorce cases. To make it a success, the parties involved should agree to participate in the out of court process. It cannot be a success if either of them does not have respect for the other or are already adversarial. The couple also needs to comply with dispute resolution terms. It is important that parties involved agree with the dispute resolution terms.
If there are kids involved, it will be important that they are not dragged into the process. In addition to that, the environment of the resolution needs to be conducive and stable. The lawyers are there to help in the resolution and not to litigate or defend a client. This is why both parties have to be part and parcel of the procedure. Also, both need to have their attorney. An attorney mainly helps them to be well versed with splitting of marital assets, child support and custody of children.
With collaborative processes, professional counseling is crucial. This is because there are moments when the issues involved will be emotionally demanding and thus a counselor has to be there to assist. The counselor assists the parties to deal with various emotional issues. Further, they assist couples how to effectively cope and the way they can communicate with each other effectively. This will help the individuals to remain friends after separation, which is very important when there are kids involved.
The attorneys will first need to meet their clients to discuss what the process entails and all the agenda. At the same time, the two attorneys will need to consult each other to reach an agreement on what should be discussed in the first session. For the meeting, all those that are involved need to be present so that rules are laid down. The rules are what govern subsequent sessions.
There is then signing of a contract that binds everyone to use the collaborative process. When that is done, both parties decide on what the next step should be and as such there may be further meetings organized. All binding issues are ideally discussed in meetings that involve all parties. Mutual respect and trust will be key to having a successful process. Also important are commitment and honesty.
In case for a reason or the other the process breaks down, all the discussions that you had will be considered confidential. They cannot be referred to in court processes or for future negotiations. It is a fundamental principle. However, majority of cases tend to be successful and thus planning for failure never comes in.
If the case is a success, the attorney will prepare binding separation agreement. This is what reflects what has been agreed on. The parties are supposed to sign it.
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