Missouri 2024 Regular Session

Missouri House Bill HB2122

Introduced
1/3/24  

Caption

Establishes the "Uniform Collaborative Law Act"

Impact

If enacted, HB2122 would specifically alter legal practices in the state regarding collaborative law. It would provide guidance on how collaborative law processes should be structured and conducted, potentially impacting a range of legal scenarios, primarily in divorce and custody cases. By legitimizing collaborative law as a viable alternative to traditional adversarial litigation, the bill could promote a cultural shift in how families approach legal conflicts. Advocates argue that this could foster a more positive and constructive environment for dispute resolution.

Summary

House Bill 2122 aims to establish the 'Uniform Collaborative Law Act,' which will provide a framework for collaborative law processes in the state. This legislation is designed to promote a more amicable approach to resolving disputes, particularly in family law cases, by encouraging parties to reach mutually agreeable solutions without resorting to litigation. The bill specifies the requirements and procedures for engaging in collaborative law, including provisions for the confidentiality of communications during the process. The hope is that such an approach can lead to reduced emotional stress and costs for parties involved in disputes.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB2122 include concerns over the enforceability of collaborative agreements and whether they adequately protect the interests of all parties involved, particularly in cases where power imbalances may exist. Opponents of the legislation have raised questions about whether all professionals involved in the collaborative process are sufficiently trained to handle sensitive issues arising in family law disputes. Additionally, some stakeholders are wary of the potential for abusive dynamics to go unchecked if collaborative processes are not carefully monitored, leading to unfair outcomes.

Voting_history

The discussion around HB2122 has included various perspectives from legislators and interest groups, with some advocating strongly for the bill while others oppose its passage. The voting history reflects diverse opinions, indicating a potentially divided stance on the bill as it progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO HB162

Establishes the Uniform Collaborative Law Act

MO HB279

Repeals the Missouri Limited Liability Company Act and establishes the Uniform Limited Liability Company Act as proposed by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws

MO HB1089

Establishes the Missouri Homeowners' Bill of Rights

MO HB84

Establishes the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act

MO HB1165

Modifies and establishes provisions relating to the Uniform Commercial Code

MO HB82

Repeals and establishes provisions relating to alternative dispute resolution

MO HB129

Establishes the Uniform Deployed Parents Custody and Visitation Act

MO HB1058

Establishes the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act

MO HB750

Establishes the Uniform Public Expression Protection Act

MO SB394

Establishes the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.