The Steps of the Process

___Commitment to Settlement – The parties commit to working together to resolve issues and to reach agreements that are beneficial to everyone involved. If an agreement is not reached or the agreement is not honored, the attorneys and any experts are all disqualified from proceeding further on a litigation basis, and the parties must seek other counsel.

___Respectful Communication – The parties agree to remain civil and respectful with one another throughout the process. Opportunities for practicing new communications skills are encouraged, setting aside the tendency to blame and rehash the past and allowing for a more healthful environment for the parties and for their children.

___Information Exchange – The parties also agree to honestly and voluntarily disclose all pertinent information and documentation. Tricks, hidden agendas and covert behavior are not tolerated.

___Experts – The parties jointly choose, hire and use experts such as financial advisors, appraisers, counselors, personal coaches and realtors, thus keeping better control of their expenses.

___Negotiation – The process includes a series of four-way conferences, with attorneys and clients present, to resolve all of the parties' issues, including parenting decisions and division of the marital property. This process allows for more flexibility and creativity in designing solutions, with a custom fit' to meet the parties' needs, fit their schedules and adapt to their circumstances.

©2008 Central Texas Collaborative
Family Lawyers