Successful Collaborative practice relies on transparency, interest-based negotiation and problem solving. Power imbalances between participants, including coercive control and the dynamic of domestic abuse, can compromise the necessary precondition of emotional safety. Collaborative practice is not unique in this regard. The efficacy of all dispute resolution processes in family law is negatively impacted by family violence. If you think you are involved in a domestic violence situation, you need to discuss this with someone on your Collaborative team.

For more information on domestic violence, please see the following links:

Domestic Abuse Project (DAP)

Harriet Tubman Center

Cornerstone

Shelters and Emergency Housing

Sojourner