When a relationship ends, many people assume the only way forward is a costly and stressful court battle. But there’s a better way—one that prioritizes respect, transparency, and the well-being of everyone involved, especially children. It’s called Collaborative Practice.
A More Respectful Approach to Separation and Divorce
Collaborative Practice is a voluntary, team-based method of resolving family disputes without going to court. Instead of fighting in front of a judge, separating couples work together—with the support of trained professionals—to reach customized solutions that meet their unique needs.
The process is guided by a Collaborative Participation Agreement, which all parties sign. This agreement commits everyone to open communication, full disclosure of relevant information, and a shared goal of resolving matters respectfully and privately.
Learn more about Collaborative Divorce Services in Ontario.
How It Works
In Collaborative Practice, each spouse retains their own collaboratively trained lawyer. Depending on the needs of the case, additional team members may join, such as:
- Financial professionals to assist with budgeting, disclosure, and property division
- Family professionals or coaches to help manage emotions and parenting plans
- Child specialists to give children a voice in a developmentally appropriate way
This team-based model allows families to address legal, emotional, and financial issues holistically—something traditional litigation rarely does.
Why Choose Collaborative Practice?
- Keeps you out of court – All participants agree in advance not to litigate
- Promotes privacy – Discussions take place in a confidential setting, not a public courtroom
- Supports children – The process puts the best interests of children at the forefront
- Customized solutions – Agreements are tailored to your family’s specific needs and values
- Preserves relationships – Whether you’re co-parenting or dividing business interests, collaboration helps reduce conflict
A Global Movement, Rooted in Local Expertise
Collaborative Practice isn’t just used in Ontario—it’s a growing global movement. The International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (IACP) is the worldwide organization leading this initiative, with members in over 25 countries. The IACP promotes education, innovation, and integrity in Collaborative Law, helping families resolve disputes with dignity.
At Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers, we’ve seen firsthand how transformative this approach can be. It turns “win-lose” battles into “win-win” agreements, where everyone walks away with less stress and more control over their future.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re separating and want a better way forward, Collaborative Practice may be right for you. Book a consultation with our team to explore your options and start building a peaceful path ahead.
