Collaborative divorce is a process that was created to help families navigate their way through one of the most difficult times in their lives without the worry, stress, and costs, both emotional and financial, of going to Court. This process is designed to put the family’s needs first and foremost and a team is formed to support the family in whatever way they need.
This type of divorce is vastly different from a traditional, adversarial process that positions parties against each other and gives decision making power to a Court. In collaborative practice, the team supports the whole family in finding long lasting solutions. The costs of this process are far less than court based approaches and are often much more efficient in terms of time and money. Collaborative work is done by way of meetings and open exchange of information which protects families from the damaging nature of the litigation process and also saves families thousands of dollars in costs.
The team collaborates to help the family work through all issues relating to the separation and can include financial neutral, child specialist, and divorce coaches. The team will customize a solution that is future focused and considers every member of the family’s needs.
Collaborative lawyers are specially trained to think differently and focus on resolution and out of court solutions. The process starts with the signing of a Participation Agreement and, ideally, ends in a comprehensive separation agreement.
There is a commitment from everyone to work together in a manner that is respectful, open, and with integrity. There are commitments and safeguards to ensure the process works for the whole family while ensuring each parent is fully advised of their rights and obligations. If the process ends, the team members role ends and they do not go to court to act against any member of the family.
If you would like to learn more about this and see if a Collaborative no court approach is right for you, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free initial consultation.