Tacoma Collaborative Law
We Provide Solutions-Focused Collaborative Law Support in Tacoma
At the Law Office of Amanda J. Cook PLLC, our Tacoma collaborative law attorney is skilled, compassionate, and experienced. The collaborative law process can help promote an amicable, cost-effective solution in a wide range of family law cases, including divorce and child custody. If you have any questions or concerns about collaborative law in Washington, we can help. Contact us today for a fully confidential consultation with a top Tacoma collaborative law attorney.
Collaborative Law in Washington: The Basics
Collaborative law in Washington offers a respectful, solution-focused approach to resolving family disputes. Instead of battling in court, both parties work with their attorneys and neutral professionals (such as financial specialists or family counselors) to reach mutually acceptable agreements. The key law in Washington is the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (Chapter 7.77 RCW). The process promotes open communication, privacy, and control over the outcome. The collaborative process can be used for a wide range of family law issues in Tacoma, including divorce, property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support.
Key Features of Washington’s Collaborative Law Process
Collaborative law is a cooperative, non-adversarial, and structured process in Washington State. It is not the same thing as mediation, though the goals for collaborative law and family mediation are often similar. Here are some key features of the collaborative law process in Tacoma:
- Voluntary Participation Agreement: Collaborative law begins with both parties signing a written participation agreement under RCW 7.77.030. The initial participation agreement will commit each side to resolving its family dispute outside of court. Beyond that, it establishes the ground rules for the process. These include things like transparency, respect, confidentiality, and the required withdrawal of attorneys if litigation becomes necessary. The agreement must be signed for collaborative law to start.
- Open Exchange of Information: Unlike adversarial litigation, collaborative law requires full and voluntary disclosure of all relevant financial and personal information. It is an extra level of transparency that can help both parties make informed decisions about property division, support, and parenting plans.
- A Team-Focused Approach: The collaborative process often includes neutral specialists (financial planners, child psychologists, communication coaches, etc) who guide discussions in their respective areas of expertise. These professionals act jointly for both parties rather than advocating for one side. The cost is shared.
- Attorney Withdrawal Requirement: In Washington State, collaborative attorneys must withdraw if either party decides to proceed to court. The rule reinforces the commitment to settlement and eliminates the strategic advantage of litigation threats. Parties who choose collaborative law understand that pursuing litigation requires hiring new counsel.
- Enforceability of Agreements: Once terms are reached, the resulting settlement is formalized in a written agreement or incorporated into a final divorce decree or other family law order. Washington courts can and will enforce these agreements as long as they meet all applicable procedural and legal requirements. Proper drafting is a must.
How Tacoma Divorce Lawyer Amanda Cook Can Help?
You do not have to navigate the complexity of the collaborative law process alone. Amanda Cook is a top Washington family attorney with a strong record of success handling a wide range of cases, including collaborative divorce and collaborative family law. We are proactive and we are dedicated to providing personalized family law guidance and support. When you contact us, you will connect with a Tacoma, WA collaborative law attorney who can:
- Listen to your story and answer questions about the collaborative law process;
- Help you gather all supporting documents, records, and information;
- Represent you in collaborative law proceedings in Tacoma; and
- Develop a comprehensive strategy to protect your rights and your interests best.
Collaborative Law in Tacoma: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the law for collaborative law in Tacoma?
Collaborative law in Washington is governed by the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (UCLA) and is codified by RCW 7.77. The statute formally defines collaborative procedures, attorney withdrawal requirements, confidentiality protections, and enforceability standards. It gives structure and legal recognition to the process. Our Tacoma family lawyer is well-versed in the law.
How is collaborative law different from mediation?
Mediation is another form of non-adversarial alternative dispute resolution (ADR). It relies on a neutral third party to facilitate discussion. On the other hand, collaborative law involves both parties and their attorneys working together directly. Still, each spouse has independent legal advice throughout the process.
Are agreements reached in collaborative law legally binding?
Yes, absolutely. An agreement that is finalized through Washington’s collaborative law process can be submitted to the court. From there, they can be included within a divorce decree, a parenting plan, or any other type of family law order. As long as procedural/disclosure requirements under the law are met, the agreement is binding.
Who can benefit from collaborative law in Washington?
Most people who are locked in a family law case do not want a big fight. Any person who is going through a family dispute and is looking for a low-conflict, amicable resolution. Collaborative law benefits couples seeking privacy, civility, and more control. The process works well for families who value problem-solving and long-term stability. It can be especially useful for parents.
How long does the collaborative law process take?
It depends. The duration of the collaborative law process varies based on the number of issues, the complexity of finances, and each party’s willingness to cooperate. Most collaborative cases resolve in a few months. To be clear, that is often much faster than traditional litigation. Our Tacoma collaborative attorney can help you find a solution.
Contact Our Tacoma, WA Collaborative Family Lawyer Today
At the Law Office of Amanda J. Cook PLLC, our Tacoma collaborative lawyer is committed to helping people navigate family reorganization successfully in a cooperative, low-conflict manner. If you have any questions about the collaborative law process, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us at 253-265-7515 for a fully confidential initial consultation. We provide collaborative law services in Tacoma, Pierce County, and beyond.
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…Divorce and child custody issues are stressful enough to continually go through ,but Amanda always knew how to ease some of that stress. There’s no better feeling than having the utmost confidence in your attorney. Amanda was always there whenever we had questions or needed clarification. She’s hands down one of the best around!
Steve & Marissa
Amanda went above and beyond to help us in every way when it came to our custody issues. She was there for us every step of the way. Her knowledge and expertise helped us at every turn. She is a wonderful person and even better lawyer to have on your side. Thank you ever so much Amanda for your time and effort.