COLLABORATIVE PROCESS is where each party is represented by a lawyer who is properly trained in the collaborative process to help spouses resolve their issues. The lawyers assist the spouses to negotiate the terms of a Separation Agreement. The spouses sign a contract stating they will not proceed to court, but will negotiate all the issues to settlement. The negotiation is interest based, meaning the interests of both spouses are considered. The spouses and the lawyers form a “team” to problem solve. The “team” can also involve other professionals such as therapists, counselors, social workers and financial experts. The collaborative process consists of a series of settlement meetings to work through the interests of the spouses. Once the spouses have reached an agreement on all issues, a Separation Agreement will be drafted and signed by them.