
Collaborative Practice is more than just another way to resolve disputes—it’s a movement that’s reshaping how families and businesses solve problems. Instead of treating disputes as battles with winners and losers, Collaborative Practice empowers people to work together, supported by their lawyers and a team of skilled professionals, to create lasting, respectful solutions.
As a Collaborative Professional, you play a central role in this process. At the outset, clients and professionals sign a Participation Agreement—a commitment to openness, respect, and problem-solving without going to court. You’ll guide clients through structured conversations, four-way meetings, and team-based planning sessions that focus on understanding needs and building agreements that truly work.


Make a bigger impact – Help clients resolve disputes with dignity, respect, and long-term solutions, rather than fueling adversarial conflict.
Work as part of a team – Collaborate with other professionals such as financial advisers, accountants, coaches, psychologists, and child consultants to provide holistic support.
Reduce harm, build trust – Protect relationships and minimise emotional stress, particularly where children are involved.
Professional satisfaction – Move beyond the limitations of litigation and mediation into a practice that aligns with your values and strengthens your professional network.
The difference you can make - When children are involved, Collaborative Practice is especially powerful. By avoiding court, parents can preserve their ability to co-parent, reduce the distress of ongoing conflict, and put their children’s wellbeing first
If you are ready to be part of that positive change, helping families and businesses move forward with less damage and more dignity. Then find out more about how your professional expertise is vital to the success of Collaborative Law.
A Collaborative Facilitator is vital as they guide communication, build the structure for the collaborative process, and keep all parties and professionals on track—helping clients and professionals work together productively toward lasting solutions.
Qualification Requirements:
Must be a member of a professional association with a Code of Ethics;
Hold a tertiary qualification relevant to their professional area of expertise;
Qualified as a mediator;
Member of AMINZ or Resolution Institute;
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training; and
Completed additional 20 hours of training as a Collaborative Facilitator/Coach.
All applicants must submit details of professional association membership, qualifications and details of the ICP and CF/CC training course they have completed.
A Collaborative Lawyer is essential because they provide legal guidance and advice within the Collaborative Law framework, ensuring their client’s needs are met while working toward fair, respectful, and durable agreements.
Qualification Requirements:
Qualification as a Aotearoa New Zealand Legal Practicioner; and
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training;
All applicants must submit details of the ICP training course they have completed.
A Financial Neutral - Accountant in Collaborative Practice provide clear, unbiased financial analysis, helping all parties understand the numbers so decisions can be made with confidence and transparency.
Qualification Requirements:
Qualification as a Certified Public Accountant or a Chartered Accountant; and
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training.
All applicants must submit a copy of their current certification, together with details of the ICP training course completed.
A Financial Neutral - Financial Planner help clients understand their financial options, plan for the future, and create solutions that support long-term stability for everyone involved.
Qualification Requirements:
Adviser member of the Financial Advice Association of New Zealand;
Holds a related degree in financial planning, economics or finance or is a Certified Financial Planner; and
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training.
All applicants must submit a copy of their degree or current CFP certification, along with details of the ICP training course they have completed.
This can include psychologists, to assist an individual or all clients. Or provide a voice of the Child into the Collaborative Process.
Qualification Requirements:
Is a member of Te Poari Kaimātai Hinengaro o Aotearoa | New Zealand Psychologists Board; and
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training.
All applicants must submit details of the ICP training course they have completed.
A Divorce Coach can provide additional support to one or all clients. Specifically assisting them in managing the emotional stress and helping them stay focused,
Qualification Requirements:
Active CDC Certified Divorce Coach or DCA qualifications;
Holds a tertiary degree; and
Completion of a minimum of 14 hours of introductory Collaborative Practice training.
All applicants must submit a copy of their degree along with details of the ICP training course they have completed.
We are committed to connecting Collaborative Professionals, providing you with the contacts that will create the foundations for the success of Interdisciplinary Collaborative Law in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Whether you are long time advocate of Collaborative Law, or just curious about it, join us on the 3rd Tuesday's of every month 5.30 pm for our online Collaborative Professionals Catch Up. Where we will deep dive into case studies and open the floor to your questions.

This Collaborative Law website is focused on providing consumers awareness of the Collaborative Law process. We have a clear mission to transform the way families and businesses resolve conflict in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Phone: 021 086 35271
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