The Collaborative approach to family law focuses on parties being in control, reducing conflict and avoiding Court following separation. Through this process, Lawyers assist their clients in resolving their outstanding matters arising from separation in a dignified and successful manner.

Generally, the Collaborative process involves both parties and their Lawyers engaging in a series of round table discussions. The aim of those meetings is to ultimately achieve a long-term agreement regarding the future care of their children and/or what assets and liabilities they will each retain from their property pool.

Our Principal - Diane Ruhl is trained in Collaborative Law and has experience in facilitating the Collaborative process, to enable their clients to reach their desired outcome.

Collaborative Law FAQs

Do we both need a lawyer?

• Yes, you and your former partner or spouse will need to each engage a Lawyer if you wish to proceed through the Collaborative process. You will still receive independent advice from that Lawyer, separate to the round table discussions that occur. You will still be able to communicate with your Lawyer at any point throughout the process, without your former partner or spouse and/or their Lawyer present.

Why can’t we just engage one lawyer?

• A Lawyer cannot act for both you and your former spouse or partner. This is because it would be seen as an ethical conflict of interest to provide both of you with legal advice about the same matters.

What happens when we reach an agreement?

• Your agreement will be formalised by your Lawyers in the appropriate manner, usually by Consent Orders. Naturally, you and your former spouse or partner will both review those documents and have the ability to ask any questions. You will both then sign them and they will be filed in the Court (if applicable) by your Lawyers. You do not need to attend at Court if you reach an agreement and enter into Consent Orders.

Do both of our Lawyers need to be trained in collaborative law?

• It is ideal if the Lawyer for your former partner or spouse is collaboratively trained. We can provide you with a recommendation if necessary.