Collaborative Practice is a way to resolve separation without going to court. Instead of a contest with a winner and a loser, you, your former partner and your lawyers work together towards the best outcome for you both.
Start with a free 20-minute discovery call. Meetings across Australia, in person or online.
At the outset, everyone signs a Participation Agreement, committing to treat each other respectfully and to share all the information needed to reach a fair agreement.
Most of the work happens in four-way meetings, where you, your former partner and both lawyers share views, concerns and important information. Between meetings, the process continues through phone conferences and correspondence.
Other professionals can join to support you both, such as child consultants, financial advisers, accountants, psychologists or coaches.
A commitment to stay out of court
If the process breaks down and court becomes necessary, another lawyer in our team takes over your matter. Nothing from the collaborative process is passed on to them, so the four-way meetings stay a safe place for open discussion.
It suits people who want to keep control of the outcome, preserve their dignity and protect an ongoing relationship, especially as co-parents.
We discuss whether collaborative law suits your situation.
Sign the Participation Agreement
Everyone agrees to act respectfully, share the information needed and work towards an agreement without court.
Share information
Full and open disclosure of financial and other information.
Four-way meetings
Share views, concerns and information, and explore options together.
Reach agreement
Build an outcome that works for both of you.
Make it binding
Your agreement can be made into court orders by consent, or recorded in a financial agreement.
“What makes Suvarna truly exceptional is not just her legal expertise, but the humanity, conviction and genuine care she brings to those she represents.”
A way of resolving separation outside court. Both people and their lawyers sign a Participation Agreement and work together in four-way meetings to reach an agreement.
How is it different from mediation?
Each person’s lawyer is with them throughout, and other professionals such as child consultants or financial advisers can be brought in. The whole process is focused on reaching agreement rather than preparing for court.
Who else can be involved?
Depending on your needs, child consultants, financial advisers, accountants, psychologists or coaches.
What happens if we cannot agree?
If court becomes necessary, another lawyer in our team takes over your matter. No information from the collaborative process is passed on to them.
Can our agreement be made legally binding?
Yes. It can be made into court orders by consent, or recorded in a binding financial agreement.
Is it right for everyone?
No. It is not suitable where there is family violence or where one person cannot negotiate safely. We will talk through whether it suits you.
