If you and your spouse are like most couples in Fort Myers, Florida, you probably thought your marriage would last. Unfortunately, things happen and some marriages end. Instead of getting a long, highly emotional traditional court divorce, you might want to instead consider collaborative divorce.
What is collaborative divorce?
Collaborative divorce is a better alternative to a regular courtroom divorce. It gives you and your spouse the opportunity to rationally discuss all matters related to your split. You can work as a team to negotiate the most important things such as alimony, child support and custody, visitation, property division and more. It is a process that encourages free and open communication between both spouses so that each can have their concerns heard and addressed.
How does collaborative divorce work?
The only way collaborative divorce can work is if both spouses agree to work together to settle their matters. Both parties need to be on board, so If one party refuses, it cannot work.
Once the spouses agree to use collaborative divorce to dissolve their marriage, they must bring in attorneys who are experienced in the process. Each party meets separately with their attorney to talk about what they want to get out of the divorce. All the important matters should be brought up at this meeting. You will also get the chance to bring in professionals who can help in any area that’s pertinent, such as a child specialist. Each professional works with both parties to come to an agreement on that particular matter.
Later, both parties and their attorneys meet and discuss matters. If you’re able to come to an agreement, you sign a formal document that states you won’t bring your divorce to court. However, this agreement also says that if you do go to court, your attorneys withdraw.
Collaborative divorce may be a great option for you and your spouse. If you agree on many matters and your split is amicable or at least civil, it might be the one for you.
