Collaborative Resolution

Collaborative resolution is a contractual, out-of-court process designed to resolve disputes respectfully and constructively. It emphasises cooperation, dignity, and mutual decision-making rather than adversarial proceedings.

Key features:

  • Non-adversarial and confidential: Disputes are addressed in a respectful, private setting that avoids the emotional strain often associated with court cases.

  • Client-driven: The parties remain in control, working collaboratively with their own professional advisors to reach outcomes that reflect their priorities and interests.

  • Cost-effective and efficient: With active engagement and open information-sharing, the process is typically quicker and less costly than litigation.

  • Guided by experts: Each party is supported by their own collaboratively trained lawyer. By agreement, other professionals such as financial specialists, facilitators, or counsellors may also be involved. The right mix of expertise helps build practical and lasting solutions.

Only practitioners who are suitably qualified in the collaborative resolution process can provide this form of dispute resolution.

You can search for a collaborative resolution professional on our Find a Professional page.

Collaborative Resolution within AMINZ

In February 2025, Collaborative Resolution New Zealand (CRNZ) joined AMINZ, strengthening AMINZ’s comprehensive professional framework.

This integration ensures collaborative resolution grows alongside arbitration, mediation, and adjudication — broadening the range of high-quality, principled options available to resolve disputes in Aotearoa New Zealand.