Collaborative Practice

Collaborative Practice is best suited to cases where both parties are committed to resolving their dispute respectfully, with a shared goal of minimising conflict and avoiding court. It works well when individuals are willing to communicate openly, disclose relevant information, and focus on mutually beneficial outcomes.

Collaborative Practice may not be appropriate in situations where:

• one party is unwilling to share information transparently;

• there is an attempt to pressure or manipulate the other party; and/or

• there is a history of family violence, abuse, or significant power imbalance.

In these cases, a more structured or protective process may be necessary. It’s important to speak with a collaboratively trained professional who can assess whether Collaborative Practice is suitable for your circumstances and ensure your safety and interests are protected.

Collaborative Practice offers a respectful, team-based alternative to traditional legal proceedings for families navigating separation.

Key benefits include:

• Preserves dignity and relationships – The process is non-adversarial, helping families maintain respectful communication, especially important for ongoing co-parenting

• Greater control – You and your ex-partner shape the outcome together, rather than having decisions imposed by a judge

• Faster resolution – Collaborative matters are often resolved more quickly than court proceedings

• Cost-effective – No court appearances and streamlined meetings mean lower overall costs

• Private and confidential – Discussions happen in a safe, private setting, away from the public eye

• Less stressful – The process is designed to reduce conflict and emotional strain

• Tailored support – A team of professionals can be engaged to address emotional, financial, and parenting needs

• Child-focused – The wellbeing of children is prioritised, with child consultants available to ensure their voices are considered

• Research-backed outcomes – Studies show that people are more satisfied and more likely to follow through with agreements they’ve helped create themselves

Collaborative Practice is built on a shared commitment to resolving disputes outside of court. At the outset, both parties—and their lawyers—sign a Participation Agreement confirming that they will not initiate court proceedings while engaged in the collaborative process.

This means:

• Neither party can use the threat of court to pressure the other

• Everyone is focused on finding respectful, negotiated solutions

• If the process breaks down and either party chooses to go to court, both collaborative lawyers must withdraw from the matter, and new legal representation must be engaged

This structure reinforces trust, transparency, and a genuine commitment to resolution—making court a last resort, not a looming possibility.

If you're curious about whether Collaborative Practice is right for you, you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute call with me. I can explain how the process works, what to expect and how coaching can support you throughout.

If you decide to proceed, I can provide referrals to collaboratively trained lawyers, or you can visit the Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals here.

Collaborative Practice is a structured, team-based approach to resolving family law matters without going to court. Each party begins by meeting with their own collaboratively trained lawyer to discuss the process and identify the issues that matter most to them.

If both parties choose to proceed, they—and their lawyers—and the coach—sign a Participation Agreement, committing to:

• Treat each other with respect throughout the process

• Share full and honest financial information

• Maintain confidentiality to allow open and frank discussions

• Work toward a written agreement without the threat of litigation

Resolution is achieved through a series of face-to-face meetings, where both parties and their lawyers come together to discuss issues in a transparent, non-adversarial way. Everyone is encouraged to share openly and honestly, fostering trust, clarity and creative problem-solving.

Additional professionals—such as child consultants or financial specialists—may be involved to support the family’s emotional, financial and parenting needs.

The cost of Collaborative Practice varies depending on your individual circumstances and the professionals involved in your matter. Factors such as the complexity of the issues, the number of meetings required, and whether additional support—like financial specialists or child consultants—is sought, will all influence the overall investment.

Our fees are set out here. The cost is usually shared equally with the other party unless otherwise agreed.