Divorce issues often cause friction and disputes among parents and other household members. This process tends to put parties against each other based on the situation. Some divorcing couples prefer to take a non-adversarial approach, such as collaborative divorce.
This option prioritizes the whole family’s welfare, promoting collaboration and cooperation between parents. It often requires honesty when expressing opinions or preferences, especially when discussing concerns involving children. It can also establish communication channels and collaboration methods that can be helpful in life after divorce. The collaborative approach has multiple steps, including the following:
- The divorcing couple hires attorneys, including neutral consultants, who can help kick off the process.
- The attorneys discuss case details with their clients separately, including their outlook on essential divorce topics.
- Each party will meet with neutral consultants, such as financial professionals, who can provide insight into their circumstances.
- All consultants can meet and make notes on where they need to provide guidance or support.
- The clients, attorneys, and consultants meet to conduct initial procedures, such as signing the participation agreement, setting goals, and determining assignments.
- The team meets as needed, including consultants based on the topic during discussions. Members can also hold meetings involving all parties until they finalize decisions and agreements.
Additionally, there can be variations depending on the divorcing couple’s needs.
Addressing issues through collaboration
Some cases can involve severe disputes that stay unresolved long after finalizing the divorce. These instances may require the formality and intervention only found in court.
If the divorcing couple is on good terms, settling issues through a collaborative divorce can be beneficial. It could help both parties learn how to communicate and compromise, which are crucial when parenting a child together.