Is a collaborative divorce more efficient than a traditional divorce?

Advantages of collaborative divorce include amicable dissolution, reduced costs, reduced stress, retention of control by the parties and reduced time. Many couples have turned to collaborative divorce as a solution to some of the strains caused by traditional court divorces.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce can be more efficient that traditional divorce depending on the circumstances. If both parties are committed to the process and are able to come to agreements regarding important issues in their case, then the case can generally be handled outside of the litigation system which can be costly and time consuming.

The parties must sign an agreement at the beginning of the process and each of their attorneys must also sign on, agreeing to be committed to the collaborative process and refrain from filing suit in court during the process. The couple along with their attorneys then commence a series of meetings at which matters in the case are discussed, negotiated and, ideally, resolved. Issues such as custody, spousal and child support and property distribution are discussed. The attorneys facilitate the constructive resolution of issues by keeping the parties focused on their goal of amicable, out of court resolution.

If both parties are committed, and the issues are resolved through this process, it can be extremely advantages and also help pave the way for better future communication.

Getting Legal Advice

To learn more about collaborative divorce, contact a local attorney who specializes in collaborative practice. An attorney will still advocate on your behalf whether you choose collaborative divorce or traditional divorce.