Collaborative Divorce Law

One of the newer areas of family law is called Collaborative Divorce Law. This is a process in which both parties agree that they will seek solutions to the issues they are facing by working together, rather than against each other. Only certain attorneys who possess specialized training and experience are able to participate. The goal is to minimize the emotional and financial damage to parents and children by logically and rationally addressing problems unique to each dissolution of marriage situation in a calm and thoughtful manner.

Each party agrees to work with an attorney who has special training in the Collaborative Divorce Law process. Both parties agree to freely and fully exchange all relevant information and to seek solutions that are mutually acceptable, based upon the concept that there should not be a winner and a loser in the divorce process.

When addressing issues regarding the best interests of the children, if necessary, the divorcing parties may agree to consult with appropriate professionals in the medical, educational and mental health fields to arrive at mutually acceptable resolutions. A Child and Family Investigator may be brought on to the case to assist with any parenting issues. To address financial issues, the parties may work with a financial planner to reach an equitable division of assets and debts and to figure out how to live in two households on the same income that previously supported one family unit.

Divorce is usually a difficult and painful process for all involved. We find this to be especially true for children who are often caught in the middle. Often, the involvement with the legal system makes the divorce process worse for families. Collaborative Divorce Law is a very strong effort to focus on solving a problem rather than fighting a battle. The goal is to support individuals and families going through divorce in a manner that is productive in resolving issues and moving forward. It also enables the parties to retain maximum control of the process of divorce.

We have seen far too many families spend their children's college education funds on legal fees. Collaborative Divorce Law enables families to work through the problems of divorce in a rational and economical fashion.

We can only represent one party in the Collaborative Divorce process. However, we can recommend other attorneys to you who are trained and qualified in this field with whom we will collaborate to address your divorce issues.

If this option for handling your divorce sounds like it would work for your situation, contact our office for more information or to set up an initial consultation. Let us use our experience with Collaborative Divorce Law to help you through this difficult time.