Working together to end a marriage is a viable option for individuals who want to devise divorce terms outside of court.
Collaboration offers numerous advantages, such as financial savings and minimized conflict, especially compared to traditional litigation. However, you must determine whether this form of alternative dispute resolution is the right choice for you.
Three matters you may decide together
Instead of leaving essential family matters to a court’s discretion, you and your spouse can agree to a collaborative divorce process. Rather than putting your focus on a highly contentious court case, you can negotiate with your legal representatives to reach conclusions that you and your ex find mutually agreeable.
At the start, you must sign a contract stating you will determine matters without litigation. Just be prepared to see things through together; ending your contract and starting over in court will prolong the stressful process of dissolution.
Collaborative divorce involves working with attorneys to develop terms about family matters like:
- Property division
- Spousal maintenance
- Parenting plans
You may also discuss how you’ll handle shared debt. Once you and your former spouse establish the preferred terms of your divorce, your representation will submit them to a court for approval.
Considerations for collaboration
A longstanding power struggle in your relationship may require a judge’s involvement. But if the two of you are able to get along on some level, a collaborative divorce might help you move forward in as positive a manner as possible.
Being open to compromise can go a long way in finding solutions and approaching the future in the best way for you.
