Because of the interest-based approach to coming to a resolution, negotiations are less emotional and therefore less damaging to family relationships, allowing for better negotiations and communication in the future. This is particularly helpful in a co-parenting situation. The best outcomes are reached when the perspectives of others are considered. If one must yield or compromise on issues that are important to them, the level of acrimony increases and the general satisfaction with the agreement is reduced. Problem solving together, with each party’s interests in mind, leads to the best agreement.
The sole purpose for Collaborative Practice is to help people reach agreements about matters of importance, such as structuring a family’s future after divorce. Instead of using a third party to dictate an outcome (often at enormous emotional and financial cost), professionals and clients work together in a respectful and participatory manner to learn about each person’s needs and priorities and arrive at an agreement that can be accepted by all.1
- J. Mark Weiss – When Collaborative Practice Collides with the Hardball Negotiator
