Both partners will have their own collaborative lawyer and they will meet with them individually and together in a series of meetings called ‘four-way’ meetings. At the outset everyone, including the collaborative lawyers,will sign a ‘Participation Agreement’ confirming the commitment not to go to court.
Sometimes other professionals will be involved to assist, including independant financial advisors, accountants, pensions experts and family consultants.
The emphasis is very much on working together in a non-confrontational way to reach an agreement which is fair and tailored to each individual family and their needs.