When individuals think about collaborative divorce, many do not realize that there is an organization that has set forth all the protocol and procedures in terms of how collaborative cases should operate. This organization is known as the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. They are often referred to by the acronym IACP.

The International Academy of Collaborative Professionals (“IACPP”) is an international community of collaborative lawyers, mental health and finance professionals. They set forth guidelines for the training of collaborative professionals. They have also established a protocol for how collaborative cases should work.

In addition to the IACP, there are local practice groups established under the umbrella of the IACP. The local practice groups are throughout the United States and in various localities.

The purpose is to help spread the message about collaborative practice as it relates to the resolution of divorce and family law matters. They also create uniform guidelines in which collaborative professionals are to abide by in the representation of clients.

For individuals who are interested in resolving their case in a collaborative manner, they might want to check whether the professional they are seeking out is a member of the IACP. Members of the IACP are generally trained in collaborative practice and have knowledgeable about how these cases should operate.

The term “collaborative” is not just a catch-phrase for resolving a divorce or family law matter amicably outside of court. The term actually means a very specific process that is outlined by the guidelines set forth by the IACP.

According to the IACP, they take pride in the fact they support collaborative practice worldwide by:

• establishing and upholding the essential elements, ethical and practice standards of Collaborative Practice;
• fostering professional excellence by educating and providing resources to Collaborative practitioners;
• leading and integrating the Collaborative community; and
• promoting the growth of Collaborative Practice.

Individuals who are interested in finding more out about collaborative practice should go to the IACP webpage and read more about this alternative dispute resolution method. It is growing in prominence nationwide and the trend is likely to continue.