June 11, 2026
The traditional adversarial divorce model—often characterized by high conflict, public court filings, and judicial discretion—is no longer the only "serious" path for family law practitioners in Washington. Since the enactment of the Uniform Collaborative Law Act (UCLA) under RCW 7.77, collaborative law has been formalized as a unique and powerful legal process. This session provides key insight into the statutory framework that distinguishes collaborative practice from mediation and informal negotiation, elevating it to a structured, high-stakes discipline.
Led by a panel of veteran family law practitioners, this course will move past the "kitchen table" misconceptions of collaborative law. We will examine how the process requires full disclosure and open communication creating a level of transparency that often exceeds formal discovery. Attendees will learn to navigate the core tenants of the statute with practical practice tips against the backdrop of family law.