How does mediation compare to Collaborative Law?
Mediation and Collaborative Law are both methods that have the objective of resolving issues cooperatively. Collaborative Law attorneys enter into an agreement to cooperate and to not litigate even if the couple is at an impasse; however, the attorneys have an ethical duty to protect their own client’s interests. In the event the parties are unable to reach settlement the attorneys are required to withdraw from the case by the collaborative agreement. In Collaborative Law frequently a team approach is used and the team controls the process for the clients. Debra Synovec works with the clients to determine the process; the mediation process is determined case-by-case based on the unique needs and interests of the clients. Clients may have more self-determination in the facilitated mediation approach used by Debra than they have in Collaborative Law because her approach is tailored on a case-by case basis with the clients’ involvement in order to meet the clients’ unique needs and circum
