Teamwork in your marriage may have worked early on. However, that collaboration gradually fell by wayside, until finally you saw no other option than to end your marriage.
Now, you wonder what is the best route to take in this divorce: mediation or court? Another option exists, one that you should not overlook, and that is collaborative divorce. In this scenario, you will have to revisit that teamwork that worked so well at the beginning of your marriage. But now, that teamwork is necessary to come up with a divorce agreement.
Problem-solving approach
In collaborative divorce, couples work together, often in informal settings, to create a settlement that involves negotiation, problem-solving and perseverance. They are the problem solvers and discuss numerous topics ranging from child custody and child support to division of assets and spousal support.
With their respective attorneys at their sides, each spouse drives the negotiations in collaborative divorce, which may be described as approach that falls between mediation and litigation. Attorneys involved in these sessions must have completed training in the collaborative divorce process.
Savings in time and costs
Here are some of the benefits that come with collaborative divorce:
- Control: The divorcing couple control the discussions and negotiations with certain input from their respective attorneys. They are in charge.
- Time savings: Since you direct the discussions, you can be efficient with your time and not have to attend a series of meetings or even courtroom appearances.
- Cost savings: A typical divorce can be expensive, especially if the case goes to court.
- Privacy: A greater sense of privacy brings a greater sense of comfort. No intimidation from being in a courtroom or before a judge.
- An open exchange: Some of these discussions may be informal, leading to improved chances of clear and open communication.
Such advantages may lead to a compromise resolution that both spouses had a hand in creating.
Willingness to lead
Collaborative divorce may be the right avenue to choose. It often depends on your comfort level and willingness to open up and lead the negotiations.
