Steps of the Process
Step 1: Find a Professional.
Contact a CPNV Member: In order to get started, you can choose an attorney, mental health coaches, or a financial professional. Review a list of professionals and read their profiles at the Find a Collaborative Professional drop down below. Simply call the professional of your choice (or speak to a few on the phone to narrow your choice) to set up an appointment. During your appointment, the professional will answer your questions about the Collaborative Process, with the goal of helping you to make the best choices for you and your family.
Step 2: Beginning the Collaborative Process.
Once you have chosen your Collaborative Attorney, you and your attorney will meet with the other party and his or her attorney. You will review the Collaborative Participation Agreement, which is the legal document outlining the agreed-upon commitments all parties and professionals will follow, including a commitment to keep the matter out of court. If you have not yet been introduced to the other Collaborative Team members (mental health coaches, financial professionals), your attorneys will make the recommendations and introductions.
Step 3: Information Gathering.
There is full transparency and disclosure of all relevant information in the Collaborative Process. The financial professionals (financial neutrals) may assist you in gathering and organizing your financial data. The mental health professionals (coaches, child specialists) will talk with you about child-related information needed to develop your Parenting Plan.
Step 4: Team Meetings.
You, the other party, and the professionals will work together in team meetings. It is in these meetings that we will review and honor your goals and interests, compile a list of questions to be answered, generate and evaluate options for resolution, and work toward a final agreement, establishing the foundation for your successful transition.
Step 5: Agreements.
Your agreements are formalized into a legal document, which will be submitted to the court for the court’s recognition and adoption of your decisions.
For more information, the Collaborative Divorce Kit describes the benefits of the Collaborative Process.