Prospective Client Interview (05:02)

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Collaborative attorney Rita Pollack welcomes Dan to her office. Dan’s wife Rachel of 18 years wants a divorce. Rachel's attorney referred Pollack; she reassures Dan that her sole responsibility is to her client.

Kitchen Table Conversation (04:42)

Pollack explains a process option in which couples look for remaining common ground. Dan expresses concern about his and Rachel's diverging decision making styles, but thinks they might agree on topics about their son Paul.

Mediation (04:22)

Pollack explains a process option in which a mediator sits with the divorcing couple without lawyers present. Attorneys provide information and legal counsel outside mediation sessions. Dan expresses concern about expenses; Pollack discusses ways to reduce costs.

Collaborative Law (02:06)

Pollack explains that each divorcing party is represented by a trained collaborative lawyer, keeping the process out of court. Pacing and "kitchen table" conversations help control costs. Coaches and financial professionals can also be involved.

Collaborative Law Professionals and Costs (03:46)

Pollack explains the role of mental health professionals or coaches during divorce proceedings. Costs of collaborative law and mediation are comparable.

Collaborative Law Case Timing Estimate (02:42)

Pollack asks about Dan and Rachel's assets and debt. They have a mortgage, one child, retirement funds, and Rachel has a trust. Pollack believes their case could take five or six two-hour meetings to resolve.

Fees and Additional Professionals (03:28)

Pollack discloses her hourly fees and discusses the role of collaboratively trained financial professionals and child specialists, which are less commonly used. She encourages Dan to use a coach in the divorce process.

Prospective Client Interview Conclusion (01:47)

Pollack explains that all professionals would withdraw, should the collaborative process fail, and transfer Dan and Rachel to litigation counseling. She encourages Dan to call with further questions.

Credits: How to Talk with a Prospective Client about Collaborative Law—Collaborative Divorce and Alternative Dispute Resolution (00:54)

Credits: How to Talk with a Prospective Client about Collaborative Law—Collaborative Divorce and Alternative Dispute Resolution