Collaborative practice and mediation services are related concepts, but they are not exactly the same thing. They both involve alternative dispute resolution methods, but they have distinct approaches and processes.
Collaborative practice refers to a method of resolving disputes in a non-adversarial manner. It is often used in family law, but it can also apply to other areas. In collaborative practice, each party is represented by their own attorney, and all parties, along with their attorneys, agree to work together to find mutually acceptable solutions.
While mediation is another form of alternative dispute resolution where a neutral third party, the mediator, facilitates discussions between the disputing parties. The mediator’s role is to help the parties communicate effectively, understand each other’s perspectives, and reach a voluntary agreement.