COLLABORATIVE LAW
Collaborative Law offers a non-adversarial, respectful approach to resolving family law matters that do not involve courts. In the Collaborative Law approach, the parties agree to resolve all disputes regarding child custody and visitation, child support, alimony or spousal support and property distribution without the time consuming and costly need for court intervention. In fact, the parties and their attorneys sign a pledge to work out an agreement without going to court. If necessary, neutral financial and mental health professionals are also available to help spouses analyze their needs and interests, facilitate communication, address parenting concerns and evaluate assets, while each party’s collaborative attorney provides legal advice and helps advocate for the most workable solution on each issue you’re facing.
I’m so pleased to share my experience with Zanita Zacks Gabriel, Her professionalism and knowledge of the law and family issues are impeccable! She helped me through a nasty divorce and settlement that ended in an amicable agreement that I thought was not possible. She graciously continued to represent me when I moved 2500 miles away, she kept me informed and advised accordingly. She made me feel supported and stronger during that difficult time. I highly recommend her ,she will get you thru it peacefully. She is to the point and is serious about her profession. Thank you Zanita so much!
COLLABORATIVE LAW AT A GLANCE
- A commitment by the parties and their attorneys to resolve their disputes outside the court system.
- A process to protect your children and their interests.
- A process intentionally geared toward settlement from the outset.
- An open, honest, yet confidential exchange of information by the parties.
- Reduces financial, time, and emotional costs.
- Avoids going to court.
- Helps maintain important relationships.
- Protects confidentiality and avoids publicity.
- Keeps the parties in control of the process.
- Encourages mutual respect.
- Provides open communication.
- Uses a problem-solving approach.
- Identifies and addresses all parties’ interests and concerns.
If the following values are important to you, Collaborative Practice is likely to be a workable option:
- I want us to communicate with a tone of respect.
- I want to prioritize the needs of our children, and co-parent effectively.
- My needs and those of my spouse/partner require equal consideration, and I will listen objectively.
- I believe that working creatively and cooperatively resolves issues.
- It is important to reach beyond today’s frustration and pain to plan for the future.
- I can behave ethically toward my spouse/partner.
- I choose to maintain control of the divorce/separation process with my spouse/partner, and not relegate it to the courts.
If this path reflects your own thinking, contact Zanita A. Zacks-Gabriel, collaborative lawyer, mediator and trainer, about your own situation. Zanita can help you decide if Collaborative Practice is the right alternative for you and your family.