Divorce or the ending of a long-term relationship is a sensitive and personal matter. No single approach is right for everyone. Many couples find Collaborative Practice to be a welcome alternative to the often destructive, and sometimes very expensive aspects of court proceedings.  For Lesbian, Gay, Transgender or Bi-Sexual Couples who cannot marry legally or who are married but cannot divorce in their state or country, Collaborative Practice offers a mechanism for reaching a legally enforceable resolution of their issues.

If the following values are important to you, Collaborative Practice is likely to be a workable option for you:

• I want us to communicate with a tone of respect.
• I want to prioritize the needs of our children.
• My needs and those of my spouse/partner require equal consideration, and I will listen objectively.
• I believe that working creatively and cooperatively resolves issues.
• It is important to reach beyond today’s frustration and pain to plan for the future.
• I can behave ethically toward my spouse/partner.
• I choose to maintain control of the divorce/separation process with my spouse/partner, and not relegate it to the courts.

If this path reflects your own thinking, we suggest that you talk to a Collaborative lawyer, Collaborative coach, child specialist or financial professional about your own situation. A Collaborative professional can help you decide if Collaborative Practice is the right alternative for you and your family.