Collaborative Practice
Collaborative Practice offers a respectful, structured alternative to traditional litigation for estate disputes and intricate estate planning and succession matters. It is designed for families who want to address complex legal and emotional issues while preserving relationships, leveraging good advice and developing practical solutions.
In a collaborative process, each person receives independent legal advice, while all participants and their advisers commit to open communication, transparency and collective problem-solving through the use of a Participation Agreement. The focus is on managing conflict constructively, leveraging teamwork and considering holistic advice generate outcomes that reflect the participants’ interests, values and concerns.
Participation Agreement
All parties and their lawyers sign a participation Agreement committing to the collaborative process. This Agreement provides a clear framework for the process, build trust and protects confidentiality so the focus can be on collective problem-solving.
Independent Legal Advice
Participants each have their own collaboratively trained lawyer who provides advice, support and advocacy throughout the process. This ensures you receive independent legal advice about your rights and interests, and are properly represented throughout the process.
Confidentiality and Transparency
Information is shared openly throughout the process, which enables informed problem-solving. The information shared during the collaborative process is confidential between the parties, and the confidentiality of sensitive information is protected from use outside of the collaborative process.
Team-Based Approach
The collaborative team is led by a communications coach - a trained, neutral professional (often with a background in psychology, counselling or mediation) whose role is to facilitate open dialogue and help participants to manage the emotion that often comes with longstanding family dynamics.
We also leverage other professionals such as accountants, financial planners and meditators, allowing a holistic approach that addressed legal, financial and emotional considerations.
