The bill SB1283, known as the Connecticut Uniform Collaborative Law Act, establishes a legal framework for collaborative law processes in Connecticut, set to take effect on October 1, 2025. It introduces new definitions and procedures, including terms like "collaborative law communication" and "collaborative lawyer," and mandates that a collaborative law participation agreement be in writing, signed by the parties, and detail the collaborative matter and lawyers involved. The act emphasizes the voluntary nature of the collaborative process, stipulating that it cannot be compelled by a tribunal. It also outlines conditions for concluding the collaborative process, such as resolution of the matter or termination by notice, and allows for the continuation of the process even after a lawyer's withdrawal, provided a successor lawyer is engaged.

Additionally, the bill enhances confidentiality protections for communications made during collaborative law processes, establishing that such communications are generally privileged and not subject to discovery, with specific exceptions for public safety and legal accountability. It requires collaborative lawyers to assess clients for any history of coercive or violent relationships before proceeding and mandates that status reports to tribunals only indicate whether the collaborative process is ongoing or concluded. The bill also clarifies that collaborative lawyers are disqualified from representing parties in related tribunal proceedings, with exceptions for emergency orders. Overall, SB1283 aims to promote uniformity in collaborative law practices while ensuring the protection of parties' rights and interests.