What it means
Collaborative law (or collaborative practice) is a dispute resolution process where each partner has their own specially trained lawyer, and everyone signs an agreement committing to resolve matters respectfully without going to court. The team may also include neutral professionals such as financial advisers or family consultants. A key feature is that if the process breaks down and a party decides to litigate, the collaborative lawyers must withdraw and the parties engage new lawyers. This encourages genuine settlement. Once agreement is reached, it can be formalised through consent orders or a binding financial agreement.
How it's used
They chose collaborative law so they could reach a respectful settlement with their lawyers' help and keep their dispute out of court.