What is Collaborative Divorce?

A collaborative divorce is not actually a divorce but a dissolution of marriage. In a collaborative divorce, both parties work together to resolve all the issues related to the divorce, including spousal support, property division, and child support. When both parties agree on these major terms, they can request a dissolution from the court.

The collaborative divorce process is slightly different from the process for a dissolution of marriage. In a collaborative divorce, each spouse has an attorney advocating for their best interests. Each spouse must also sign a collaborative agreement, pledging to go through the process with a low-conflict, collaborative attitude. The parties may also hire other professionals, like accountants or child psychologists, to give insight into particular issues surrounding the divorce.

If your marriage is coming to an end, a collaborative divorce is a great way to separate from your spouse quickly so you can close this chapter in your life. If you’d like to learn more about a collaborative divorce or you want legal representation for your divorce, call our office today at 330-296-8000.

What Are the Benefits of Collaborative Divorce?

A collaborative divorce not only saves you and your spouse time but saves you both money as well. Going through a contested divorce can involve many court proceedings and hearings. In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse end the marriage with as much dignity and respect for each other as possible.

Benefits of a collaborative divorce include:

Reduced Stress

Ending a marriage can bring about many emotions, not all of which are pleasant. Going through a long and arduous divorce process only prolongs negative emotions like frustration and resentment. In a collaborative divorce, both spouses are ready and willing to settle issues amicably, which can dissolve much of that stress and emotion.

Fewer Expenses

A divorce attorney can be expensive, especially if your divorce takes many months or multiple hearings. If your divorce goes to litigation before a judge, the pretrial preparation can be time-consuming for an attorney (which costs you money). Collaborative divorces take much less time, saving you from spending thousands on expensive legal fees.

Less Time Spent

Arguing with your spouse over spousal support, child support, and property division takes up a lot of your time. Plus, when a divorce goes to court, each aspect must be argued over by an attorney and then decided upon by a judge, which can elongate the process even more. During a collaborative divorce, both parties want to reach a resolution quickly to avoid a long, drawn-out divorce process.

What if My Spouse and I Can’t Reach an Agreement?

In many cases, a collaborative divorce is an excellent option for spouses who would like to separate quickly. If both parties are open to coming to an agreement and can work together to resolve their issues, then a collaborative divorce is the right choice. If you and your spouse are on good terms, discuss the benefits and the process of a collaborative divorce to help them see why it would be a good choice. If they are still uncertain, your legal representation can also assist you in relaying the benefits of a collaborative divorce.

Unfortunately, if you and your spouse try a collaborative divorce and cannot agree on the major terms, the divorce process will essentially start over. Both parties will have to hire new legal representatives and take their cases to court for litigation or arbitration. However, in most cases, spouses can reach an agreement during a collaborative divorce.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me?

Going through a divorce can be a complex and emotional process. A collaborative divorce lets you and your spouse settle things amicably while parting ways with respect and dignity. Hiring legal representation enables you to start your divorce case and begin negotiations with your spouse so you can end your marriage as quickly and with as little hassle as possible.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to pursue a collaborative divorce. Call Weisenburger Law Offices, LLC today at 330-296-8000. Our experienced team will answer any of your questions and help you determine if a collaborative divorce is right for you.