34 Salem Street, Suite 202
Reading, MA 01867
781.944.0156

Lynda Robbins, Mediator and Counselor at Law
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Linda Robbins, mediator, specializes in divorce mediation and other family law disputes

Testimonials

"I would unhesitatingly recommend Lynda Robbins as an expert guide through the Collaborative Divorce process. She kept my interests as her top priority and worked towards my goals, but was also realistic and candid with me. I felt supported and protected throughout a difficult and draining process."
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~Linda S.
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What is Collaborative Law?

In Collaborative Law, the parties work with attorneys and other trained professionals to reach an Agreement without going to Court, except to obtain the final approval by a judge.

Collaborative Law Divorce

Using a collaborative divorce lawyer offers many distinct advantages over a traditional divorce litigator:

  • You keep control of the process yourselves, without going to court
  • Children's needs are given priority
  • All parties commit to reaching agreement through a problem-solving approach
  • An atmosphere of respect preserves self esteem
  • Open communication allows everyone to express needs for moving forward and provides new tools for effective problem-solving in the future
  • There is full disclosure of facts and information

Face-to-face meetings in the presence of lawyers make negotiations direct and efficient and allow for mutually created resolutions.

Collaborative Law vs. Litigation

Collaborative Law is distinguished from traditional litigation by its core elements. These elements are set out in writing among the clients and their chosen collaborative professionals to:

  • Negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement without court to decide any issues for the clients. The parties pledge in writing not to go to court except for a final hearing and agree to withdrawal of the professionals if either client goes to court
  • Engage in open communication and information sharing and face-to-face discussions between the parties and their lawyers which lead to an agreement
  • Create shared solutions that take into account the highest priorities of both clients. This respectful, problem-solving approach, often with the assistance of trained financial experts, child specialists and divorce coaches, replaces the often adversarial process of conventional divorce.

To determine if Collaborative Law is right for you, ask yourself if it is important to:

  • Work creatively and cooperatively to solve issues
  • Keep control of the divorce process with you and your spouse, and not relegate it to the court system

For more information, see our Collaborative Law Resources in the left sidebar or contact us!