The question of whether a divorce with a history or a presence of domestic violence or intimate partner violence can be handled in the Collaborative Process was answered last Thursday in our first My Collaborative Team webinar, “Addressing DV/IPV in the Collaborative Divorce Process.”

Dr. Ronda Fuchs and Rebecca Fischer, Esq. provided what was described by one participant as an “exceptional” presentation on the topic.

Of course, their answer to the question was yes.  And they provided us with screening questionnaires and checklists to help us determine whether DV/IPV was present and how we could deal with it in the process.

Their advice included protocols for a Collaborative meeting which include arranging for the clients to arrive at the meeting at separate times, provide for separate waiting areas, setting ground rules for behavior, and possibly holding caucus or remote meetings.

They provided us with power dynamics the team should be mindful of, including perpetrators who try to dominate meetings, object to separate screening interviews, state “expected” outcomes, and intimidation amongst a list of many.  Does the victim suddenly become quiet, give in excessively or avoid eye contact?  

And finally, they provided the benefits of Collaborative Practice in matters with domestic violence or intimate partner violence.  The Process gives the victim a voice. It allows the professionals to model positive conflict resolution and respect. The Process is certainly quicker than litigation and, if handled well, the victim should not have to relive the horrors of abuse.

Congratulations to our presenters for putting on such an inspiring webinar.

Edward S. Sachs is the President of My Collaborative Team. Ed Sachs is the Immediate Past President of the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals (FACP). Ed Sachs has worked both traditional and collaborative divorce for over 35 years and travels throughout the state of Florida.