Optimism in the time of adversity: The benefits of collaborative family law

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Family law specialists would know of the gravity and depth of family law matters, particularly of separation. This is why lawyers would attempt to put erring parties on a common ground and aim for a settlement outside of court whenever possible. The Collaborative Family Law (CFL) is built upon this parcel. The Collaborative Law Network defines CFL as a “dignified, cooperative approach to negotiating and settling the issues arising from a family separation outside of court.”

 

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Through CFL, the hostilities involved in marital dissolution proceedings are avoided and both parties negotiate their outstanding issues in a controlled and respectful informal meeting also known as the ‘four-way meeting.’ Divorce attorneys would act as communication and negotiation counsel for their clients in each meeting. Acting as coaches, the lawyers focus solely on the settlement without pushing their clients to go to court. Everyone involved in the process are committed to forging a fair, satisfying, and stable legal agreement.

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Other key advantages of CFL include the following:

• There is a cooperative approach to resolving issues.
• The client is in control of the proceedings.
• Parties negotiate issues without constant court threats.
• The lawyers commit themselves to the collaborative process, helping parties resolve problems without going to court.
• The procedure is less time consuming, less stressful, and less expensive than court proceedings.



Attorney Michael Kelly is among the well-respected divorce lawyers in California. He currently heads Kelly, Fernandez & Karney, the oldest and largest family law firm in Santa Monica. To learn more about family law, visit www.kfkfamilylaw.com.