Happy New Year! This year, we are working to help families stop fighting in court. Many clients that I meet with for the first time haven’t heard of the collaborative divorce process.
They have been told that they must choose between trying to figure out the legal process of divorce on their own or filing a lawsuit against their spouse and fighting in court.
These Are Not Your Only Options In Divorce
Collaborative divorce provides you with a professional team that is dedicated to identifying every issue in your divorce and to helping you resolve the most important issues and goals in your divorce with respect, dignity and privacy.
Collaborative divorce is more than just a legal process; it’s a mindset shift towards resolving conflicts amicably and respectfully. It acknowledges that divorce doesn’t have to be only about bitterness and hostility. Instead, it creates an environment where both parties can express their needs and concerns openly while working towards a mutually beneficial solution.
One of the key advantages of collaborative divorce is the emphasis on teamwork. Unlike traditional litigation, where each spouse hires their own attorney and prepares for battle, collaborative divorce assembles a team of professionals dedicated to guiding both parties through the process. This team often includes attorneys, financial advisors, and mental health professionals, all working together to address various aspects of the divorce and ensure a fair and comprehensive outcome.
Respect and Dignity
Yes, a divorce lawyer just used respect and dignity in a sentence. Perhaps the most significant benefit to you and your family in collaborative divorce is the focus on respect and dignity. I understand that this is not what you expected. Divorce lawyers are supposed to be bulldogs that want to attack your spouse. I’ve seen that movie too many times. It is not all that it’s cracked up to be, trust me.
By choosing a Collaborative approach, you can commit to treating your spouse with civility and understanding, even during moments of disagreement. This not only sets a positive tone for the divorce proceedings but also lays the groundwork for healthier co-parenting and communication in the future.
Disagreement and Fights Are Normal – We Can Deal With It
It’s also worth noting that collaborative divorce is not just for couples who get along exceptionally well. The Collaborative process is effective for couples who have disagreement and conflict. The presence of trained professionals, a collaboratively trained mental health professional and legal counsel will help facilitate productive discussions and find creative solutions to contentious issues.
Collaborative divorce empowers you to tailor solutions that meet your unique needs and priorities, with the legal counsel and information provided to you to make sure that you are making informed decisions. Rather than leaving important decisions in the hands of a judge, you will work with a professional team to craft an agreement that reflects your individual circumstances and values, and that is fair under the law. This will lead to more creative and sustainable outcomes.
Be An Informed Decision Maker
Rather than feeling like a passive bystanders along for the ride in your own divorce, you will be the decision-maker every step of the way. It is your divorce, your family, and your finances. You and your spouse are in the best position to make good decisions. You just need a good team of trusted advisors to provide you with the information to make informed decisions. This sense of ownership can lead to greater satisfaction with the final outcome and a smoother transition into post-divorce life.
We know divorce law. We use it to help you resolve your divorce with respect, instead of a lawsuit. Contact us today.
