FL S0972

Establishes the Collaborative Law Process Act as a uniform system for resolving family law disputes under chapters 61 and 742 without court intervention, with parties signing a participation agreement and being represented by collaborative attorneys.

Creates confidentiality protections for collaborative law communications, making them privileged and not subject to discovery or admissible as evidence, except for specific exceptions including threats, crimes, public records, and professional misconduct claims.

Prohibits courts from ordering parties to participate in collaborative law processes without consent and establishes that the process begins when parties sign the participation agreement and terminates when parties file court actions, discharge attorneys, or provide written notice of termination.

Allows collaborative law processes to continue if an attorney is discharged or withdraws, provided a successor attorney is engaged and all parties consent within 30 days through a signed record.

Takes effect July 1, 2016, but sections 61.55-61.58 do not become effective until 30 days after the Florida Supreme Court adopts implementing rules of procedure and professional responsibility.