Collaborative law is an emerging trend in alternative dispute resolution, especially in divorce alternatives. Many people who prefer privacy and a more peaceful method of resolution are opting for this type of divorce process. Collaborative law allows people to finalize their divorce and resolve any related issues without a courtroom and with less conflict and less expense.
The collaborative divorce process can be tailored to fit your specific needs, but it usually follows a general procedure.
Step-By-Step Process
The basic procedure of most collaborative law divorces is:
- Each party hires an attorney
- Meet with your attorney privately to discuss your wants and needs and make decisions before negotiations begin
- You and your attorney meet with your spouse and their attorney to begin discussing a settlement
- Negotiate and resolve disagreements together to come to an arrangement that both parties are satisfied with. Sometimes a mediator is involved with this step of the process.
- Sign a no-court agreement
- File papers and finalize settlement
This procedure is generally much less time consuming than a regular, litigated divorce. It allows you to discuss and resolve all issues related to your divorce from child custody to asset division privately, in a noncombative setting. It simplifies the process of filing for divorce and can uncomplicate the challenging aspects of the traditional divorce process. Collaborative divorces are becoming more and more popular among people who want a peaceful, nonpublic divorce that’s efficient and effective.
While divorce issues are complicated, going through a collaborative divorce with the right divorce attorney can help you resolve all problems related to your divorce and come to a mutual settlement that works for both you and your spouse.