What is Collaborative Divorce?
Divorce Should Not Be a Battle!
The traditional divorce process is an adversarial system, often resulting in expensive, drawn out battles over property settlements, custody, alimony and myriad other issues. The chance of a couple emerging from this process amicably is remote at best, and the effect on children is often dramatic.
Collaborative Divorce is a more peaceful alternative to litigation. It addresses all 3 dimensions of divorce: legal, emotional and financial. It's a process in which separating couples work with family lawyers, mental health professionals and financial advisors as a team to reach lasting divorce settlements without going to court. It removes the adversarial element embedded in many divorce proceedings, and replaces it with an approach that consists of mutual respect and team problem solving. Collaborative Divorce helps protect the dignity, integrity, and long-term best interests of all family members, especially the children.
Is it For You?
Many options exist today for couples seeking a divorce. Thanks to the media and perhaps cases you personally know of, massive legal bills and the bitter fighting often associated with a traditional adversarial divorce has made that option increasingly less appealing.
Collaborative Divorce is a process for those who are seeking an alternative to the traditional process, and to:
Maintain an atmosphere of respect, even in the presence of disagreements
Prioritize the needs of their children and protect them from the potential bitterness and chaos of an adversarial divorce
Reduce the expense, both financial and emotional, of the divorce process
Ensure that both parents will be encouraged to participate in shared parenting during and after the divorce
Have more certainty of their long-term financial condition post-divorce
Minimize the confusion and emotional distress of the divorce process
Participate in a process that is respectful of all those involved Work creatively and cooperatively to solve issues and create long lasting agreements
Keep control of the divorce process and not relegating it to the court system
If these components of Collaborative Divorce are appealing, then this might be the right process for you. We recommend speaking directly with one of our collaborative professionals who can answer any questions you might have and help you determine if this process is appropriate for your unique circumstances.