1. Cooperation, not confrontation
   • Problem solving with lawyers where you and your spouse try to understand each other.

   • You and your spouse are responsible for information gathering and solutions.

   • Both lawyers help you and your spouse to:
     • find and focus on your common interests;

     • understand each other's concerns;

     • explore a wide range of possible choices; and

     • reach solutions acceptable to both of you.

   • You and your spouse and your lawyers work as a team.

   • It often takes much less time and money to settle matters using the Collaborative Family Law Process, because you decide how to proceed, and at what pace.

2. How will this happen?
   • Both you, your spouse and your lawyers will meet together as often as necessary.

   • You, your spouse and your lawyers will sign a contract agreeing not to go to court.

   • During these meetings you and your spouse, with your lawyers' help, will:
     • exchange information;

     • explore a wide range of possible choices; and

     • reach solutions acceptable to both of you.

3. What will you and your spouse be expected to do?

   • First, you will each meet alone with your own lawyer to identify your concerns and learn about the Collaborative Family Law process.

   • At all meetings where you, your spouse and both lawyers are present, you will follow the Collaborative Family Law process you helped design.

   • You will treat each other with respect.

   • You will listen to each other's perspectives, interests and concerns.

   • You will explore all possible choices.

   • You will both let go of the past in order to focus on the future.

4. What can you expect from your lawyers?
   • Your lawyer will advise you of the law.

   • Both lawyers will be honest and respectful.

   • Both lawyers will guide the Collaborative Family Law meetings.

   • Both lawyers will listen to each of you.

   • Your lawyer will represent your interests, but will also listen to your spouse's interests. Your spouse's lawyer will represent your spouse's interests, but will also listen to you.

   • Both lawyers will work together to manage emotional situations.

   • Both lawyers will work together to point out unreasonable expectations.

   • Both lawyers will use clear language when speaking and writing.

   • Both lawyers will cooperate in sharing all factual information

   • Both lawyers will work hard to help you and your spouse reach an agreement.

   • Neither lawyer will go to court before you and your spouse reach an agreement.

   • Once you and your spouse reach an agreement, both lawyers will help you to obtain any necessary court approval.

For more information contact Donald R. Royall, The Royalls, P.C., 4550 Post Oak Place Suite 341, Houston Texas 77027, 713-462-6500, 713-462-6570(fax), e-mail TheRoyalls@swbell.net