There is good news for advocates of family stability - not only are divorce rates falling, especially among younger age groups, but couples who do divorce are acting more carefully about how they choose to go about the divorce process. One option that has gained popularity in recent years is known as “collaborative divorce,” and it is particularly helpful to those who are concerned about avoiding unnecessary conflict throughout the divorce process. If you have children under age 18 or are simply looking for a peaceful resolution to the end of your marriage, collaborative divorce could be the right choice for you.
What is Collaborative Divorce?
Divorce has traditionally been a combative experience, and no wonder; many of the elements of divorce can feel zero-sum to both parties. After all, time a child spends living with one parent is time she does not spend in the other parent’s home. However, collaborative divorce still recognizes some of the inherent conflicts of interest while still respecting the effort to minimize hostility and protect minor children.
Collaborative divorce involves both parents having a team of experts who guide them cooperatively through the divorce. This includes attorneys, as well as anyone else the parents feel could contribute: financial professionals, child psychologists, divorce coaches, and more. If, for whatever reason, the collaborative process is not successful, the entire team dissolves and each party’s attorney cannot go on to represent them in court litigation.
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