I've hired a Collaborative Attorney, how do I convince my spouse to hire a Collaborative Attorney too.

Collaborative Law has many advantages over litigation. It is usually far less expensive than going to trial.  When you go to court, much of your attorney's time will be spent on court strategy or on waiting to be heard in Court. Collaborative Law can help you avoid the backlog in the courts, allowing for a more expedient resolution.

In addition to these practical concerns, though, Collaborative Law offers something that the Courts do not offer: the chance to resolve your case on your terms. If you are unable to settle your case in Court a Judge, essentially a stranger who will only meet you for a very limited period of time, will make major decisions about your life. Collaborative Law is your opportunity to make these decisions together. After all, who knows what is better for you and your family than you do.

Instead of trying to convince your spouse of these advantages, we suggest that you simply request that your spouse interview an attorney who is trained in Collaborative law.  This will help them understand all of their options whether or not they choose to proceed with that attorney or the Collaborative process.  Let your spouse's attorney explain the benefits of the process.  A list of attorneys who have been trained in Collaborative Law in Massachusetts is available on the MCLC website.

Alternatively, if your spouse has shown reluctance to speak to an attorney first, you could also suggest that they speak to a Collaborative Coach.  A coach can also explain the Collaborative process and may be less intimidating than speaking to an attorney.  A list of coaches who have been trained in Collaborative Law in Massachusetts is available on the MCLC website as well.

In addition it might be helpful to tell your spouse where they can read more about Collaborative law online.  Click here to read more about the advantages of Collaborative Law or visit the MCLC website.

Finally, the MCLC Metro West Practice Group has created a brochure to help people considering the Collaborative process.  Contact Attorney Kelsey to obtain copies of the MCLC brochure.