How do I seek a collaborative divorce?

Collaborative mediation is a style of divorce that is handled outside of the courtroom. Each party to a collaborative divorce is required to retain a lawyer who must also agree to participate in the collaborative process. Collaborative divorce has many advantages for couples who are able to work together with their attorneys to come to agreement on issues relating to their case.

Collaborative Divorce Process

At the outset, the spouses and their attorneys must sign an agreement to commit to the collaborative process. This agreement generally states that neither party will file suit in court while the collaborative process is being pursued. Both parties and their attorneys must sign the agreement. Upon signing, the parties will commence a series of out of court meetings at which issues pertinent to the divorce will be discussed, negotiated and agreements must be established.

Collaborative Divorce Advantages

Collaborative divorce looks and feels differently from traditional divorce. Specialization in collaboration is becoming increasingly popular within the legal community. Many couples find that collaborative divorce offers several advantages over court handled divorces, including:

• Reduced costs associated with litigation.
• Increased control over issues because a judge is not in charge of final outcomes, the spouses are in charge.
• Collaborative divorce paves the way for better future communication. This is especially vital for couples who have children.
• Less stress is involved because the attorneys are committed to facilitating constructive actions.

Getting Legal Advice

Talk to a collaborative family law attorney to find out more about the process within your state. An attorney will advise you of your legal options.