Collaborative Divorce in a Nutshell – What every client needs to know
Step 1 – Preparation Each client signs a Collaborative Retainer Agreement with his/her lawyer (this will set out the lawyer’s hourly rate, retainer requirements and the relationship between the lawyer and the client) and has a conversation about lawyers fees with their lawyer Each client has a lawyer/client preparation meeting to get education about the process and how it will work The lawyers have a preparation meeting to discuss how they will work together to try to ensure that the negotiations will be a success Clients review the Collaborative Commitment Agreement (with their lawyers and each on his/her own) Clients use a checklist provided by their lawyer to start gathering information to bring to the first “4 Way Meeting” If clients have children, we request that they register for and attend the Parenting After Separation Seminar as soon as possible (before the first meeting is ideal) Step 2 – 4 Way Meetings Start The basic structure of the meetings is set out in the steps below: Review and sign the Collaborative Commitment Agreement Ask the clients why they chose Collaboration Identify goals and interests of the clients Identify the questions the clients need answered in their negotiation Deal with any...