Collaborative Law

Mayer & Glassman Law Corporation practices collaborative law in family law and business disputes in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California.  Collaborative law is a cutting-edge alternative to litigation in which the parties and their attorneys formally agree to meet and negotiate an agreement in good faith without going to court.

The collaborative law philosophy is that when issues are openly discussed and there is complete transparency, problem-solving can be oriented towards the identification and resolution of issues instead of competition for a court award.  Both parties agree to full and complete disclosure of all pertinent information regarding assets and liabilities, income and expenses, and any other information necessary to achieve a complete resolution, and work with their attorneys toward writing up a binding agreement. 

Collaborative Professionals

Unlike in mediation, there is no third party neutral guiding the collaborative law process.  Instead, the parties and their attorneys communicate directly in an open and honest dialogue, exchanging information and identifying needs and expectations. Confidentiality is a hallmark.  This process is underscored by the understanding that if either party decides to litigate rather than reach a collaborative agreement, the attorneys must withdraw from the case and help their clients make an orderly transition to new trial-oriented attorneys.

In order to assist in constructive discussions, the parties can retain any number of agreed-upon neutral advisors, such as accountants, child development therapists (acting as coaches or communications coordinators), actuaries, tax consultants, estate planners, and financial planners. Thus, the process transforms into an interdisciplinary team.

Collaborative Family Law

The collaborative law process can be especially useful in a divorce, especially where children are involved and lifelong responsibilities will remain long after the divorce is finalized.  Because of its confrontational and competitive nature, litigation naturally breeds animosity between former spouses.  However, in collaborative law, spouses make their own decisions and voluntarily come to mutual agreements on lingering issues such as child custody, visitation and support.  In this way, collaborative law can help parents and children preserve familial bonds while embracing their new lives.

Collaborative Law in Business

Collaborative law can be equally effective when dealing with business disputes, minimizing the drain on time and financial resources that traditional litigation can cause.  In addition, while litigation can mean the end of an otherwise lucrative business relationship, collaborative law gives the parties control over the resolution process, establishing a means for communication and preserving the potential for future business relationships. 

Seek Experienced Representation

Mayer & Glassman is a leader in the practice of collaborative law.  Firm co-founder and senior partner Frederick J. Glassman frequently lectures on collaborative law to professional groups and associations throughout the United States, has authored numerous publications, and has appeared on numerous public service television programs to discuss the practice.  To learn how collaborative law methods can help resolve your legal dispute, contact us today.