Rule 8 Disclosure of Information

Here's a plain English summary of this rule:

When people go through the collaborative law process, they have to be open and honest with each other about information related to their case. If someone asks for information, the other party must share it fully and quickly, without playing games or hiding things. This happens informally, meaning nobody has to go through the usual legal steps like sending official requests or filing paperwork with the court.

If something changes after information has already been shared, the person must update the other side right away. For example, if someone's financial situation changes or new facts come to light, they cannot sit on that information. They need to speak up so everyone has accurate, current details.

The rule also lets the parties agree on how much information they will share and what topics are covered. This gives people some flexibility to set clear expectations at the start of the process, rather than leaving it open-ended.

The whole point of this rule is to build trust. Collaborative law only works if both sides are honest and forthcoming, since there is no judge forcing anyone to hand over documents. This rule makes that honesty a requirement, not just a suggestion.