Our Process

The collaborative model was developed in North America in the early 1990s by a group of family lawyers whose experience with traditional divorce led them to the conclusion that litigation hurts families and especially children. They were certain that they could develop a healthier way to help families through the trauma of divorce and relationship breakdown and make their longterm future communications (eg about matters concerning the children/review of maintenance etc) much better.

In collaborative divorce, couples who have decided to end their marriage work with a team of professionals to avoid the arbitrary and uncertain outcome of Court and to achieve a settlement that best meets the specific needs of both parties and their children. Collaborative practice focuses on settlement, and addresses communication dynamics. It offers a more healthy and effective forum for the resolution of the couples’ issues. The goal of collaborative law is to help the couple to resolve all matters arising out of their separation in a dignified and respectful way for the benefit of the whole family and to give them a better communication base for resolving any other issues which may arise in the future.

At the outset, the couple and their lawyers will sign an agreement (the Participation Agreement) not to commence contested Court proceedings in setting out the wider objectives in the process.

Family Consultants in the collaborative process

Family Consultants are therapists or counsellors with a background in supporting families who are going through a divorce or separation process.

The role of the Family Consultant in the collaborative process is flexible with the advantage of being tailor made to address individual needs, those of the couple, the parental relationship and the wishes and hopes of the children.

Members of the CLCF have long established relationships with some of London's leading family consultants who can be brought into the collaborative process to help couples and their children work out and articulate what they want and help and advise on ways to improve communication.