Collaborative Family Law in Brisbane
by Family Lawyers & Mediation Services

What is Collaborative Law or Collaborative Practice?

Collaborative law is an innovative way to resolve family law disputes respectfully, without going to court. There are collaborative family lawyers in Brisbane (and throughout Queensland and Australia) who can help you to have a better divorce.

Collaborative law was developed by a Minnesota Lawyer (Stu Webb) in the 1980's and is now practised in many countries including Australia. Collaborative law offers separating couples a way to resolve issues about parenting arrangements and property settlement without going to court. The parties have the advantage of having their own lawyer assist them in four way meetings (ie the lawyers and parties meet together). The meetings and the matters discussed in those meetings are completely open with the parties undertaking to co-operate, share information and work together towards a mutually agreeable settlement with the assistance of their lawyers.

What is the basis of Collaborative Law?

The core elements arise from a participation agreement or collaborative contract which the parties and the lawyers all sign at the first collaborative four way meeting.

The collaborative contract provides that everyone will work towards reaching an agreement and will transparently participate in in the process good faith. 

The agreement provides that the lawyers will not be able to continue to act for their clients if the process fails.  The downside for the parties is that if one of them elects to go to court or the process fails for other reasons then they will have to invest in more time and expense to engage new lawyers and obtain other expert reports.  The lawyers are therefore focused on helping the parties reach an agreement and to negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement without having courts decide issues.

How can I start the process?

At Family Lawyers & Mediation Services we can see both you and your partner and give you both information about collaborative law and other methods of resolution of your family law issues that are available to you. You don't have to go to Court!  Simply call, email or book on line to arrange for an Information Session with Randal at a cost of $110 for up to one hour.  The information you receive will help you decide on the best way to move your family forward.