A Few Reasons To Consider Collaborative Divorce

Divorce doesn’t have to be an overly stressful process that takes a significant emotional toll on the parties involved, although it often ends up being so. One way to avoid a time-consuming and high-conflict divorce is to try the collaborative divorce process. Read on to learn more about the benefits of these types of proceedings.

What is Collaborative Divorce? 

Collaborative divorce is a process that allows couples to negotiate the terms of their own divorce in an out-of-court setting. Both parties are represented by their own attorneys and are assisted in their negotiations by a variety of professionals, including forensic accountants and family coaches. In a collaborative divorce, both parties agree to remain amicable throughout the proceedings and to abide by the terms of the agreement. If the parties are able to reach an agreement, then it must be recorded in writing and submitted to a judge for approval. Couples who are unable to complete the collaborative divorce process will need to proceed with their divorce through the court system.

Collaborative Divorce is Cost Effective 

Obtaining a divorce can be expensive, especially when the proceedings are drawn-out over a period of months or years. A contested divorce, where a couple cannot reach an agreement on any divorce-related issues will require a lot of litigation, multiple court appearances, and ultimately, a significant amount of stress. Of course, this process also leads to an increase in legal fees and court costs. Collaborative divorce, however, which allows couples to reach their own settlement agreement in an out-of-court setting, often ends up being a lot more cost effective, as the process is both simpler and faster.

Collaborative Divorce is More Private 

Although many people don’t realize it, divorce is a matter of public record, which means that other people have access to information that a couple may wish to keep private. One way to keep divorce proceedings more private is to engage in collaborative divorce, which occurs in an out-of-court setting and requires strict confidentiality. Any breach of this confidentiality is taken very seriously and can result in severe repercussions.

Collaborative Divorce Gives the Parties More Control 

When a couple decides to litigate a divorce, they are ultimately leaving the resolution of their divorce-related issues in the hands of a judge. This can result in a settlement agreement that, while fair on paper, doesn’t serve the interests of either party. Collaborative divorce, on the other hand, gives spouses more control over the outcome of their divorce. Rather than having to comply with a judge’s order, couples can make their own decisions, using their own experience to determine what would be in their family’s best interests.

An Experienced Florida Divorce Lawyer 

If you and your spouse have decided to divorce and wish to minimize conflict and part ways as amicably as possible, you should consider collaborative divorce. To learn more about this process and whether it could be right for you and your family, call dedicated Florida divorce attorney Sandra Bonfiglio, P.A. at 954-945-7591 today.

Source: 

law.cornell.edu/wex/collaborative_divorce