Senate Bill No. 1283, known as the Connecticut Uniform Collaborative Law Act, establishes a structured framework for collaborative law processes in the state, effective October 1, 2025. The bill introduces new definitions and procedures, including terms like "collaborative law communication," "collaborative law participation agreement," and "collaborative lawyer." It mandates that collaborative law participation agreements be in writing, signed by the parties, and detail the collaborative matter and involved lawyers. The process commences upon signing the agreement and can only conclude through specific resolutions or mutual consent. The bill also ensures that no party can be compelled to participate against their will and outlines mechanisms for terminating the process, including notice requirements and the option to engage a successor collaborative lawyer.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the confidentiality of collaborative law communications, establishing that such communications are privileged and not subject to discovery, with certain exceptions. Key insertions include provisions allowing tribunals to issue emergency orders during the collaborative process and disqualifying collaborative lawyers from representing parties in related tribunal proceedings, with exceptions for seeking approval of agreements or emergency orders. The bill also requires timely and informal disclosures of relevant information and clarifies that existing professional responsibility obligations for lawyers remain intact. Overall, the Connecticut Uniform Collaborative Law Act aims to enhance dispute resolution in family and domestic relations matters through a collaborative approach while ensuring safety, confidentiality, and informed participation.