What is collaborative law?

Collaborative law is a type of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) law. It is a process in which two parties, usually parties to a legal dispute, agree to voluntarily work together in order to reach a mutually acceptable resolution. In Virginia, collaborative law is recognized as a way to resolve disputes out of court, instead of resorting to litigation. In collaborative law, both parties involved in the dispute agree to work together with the assistance of their own lawyers. Collaborative law allows for the parties to have more control over the outcome of the dispute, because the lawyers are not acting as adversaries. This means that the lawyers are there to help the parties come to an agreement on their own terms, which may or may not be in line with the Virginia Code or common law. During the collaborative law process, the parties and the lawyers focus on finding a solution to the dispute that both parties are comfortable with. The lawyers are involved in negotiations and helping the parties craft an agreement. This type of ADR law allows for parties to communicate needs, goals, and interests in an effort to reach a fair result. Once an agreement is reached, both parties sign the document, thereby making the settlement legally binding. Collaborative law offers an alternative to traditional litigation, by allowing the parties to reach a mutually beneficial resolution. As a result, it can save time, money, and emotional stress. It also allows parties to focus on the underlying issues and to craft a creative solution that meets their needs.

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What is collaborative law?

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