What is Collaborative Divorce

Collaboration is dedicated to respectful, transparent and private problem solving that uses:

1. a team approach so that each role in the divorce process uses the most qualified and least expensive professional for that role.
2. a team that is committed to resolving the divorce justly without resort to the courts while striving to meet the fundamental needs of each spouse. The team includes:
   1. a neutral family coach to help you and your spouse keep your communication positive and helpful through the divorce process and to mediate a parenting plan if children are involved.
   2. a financial neutral mediator to help you efficiently document your marital assets, income and expenses and then explore various options for dividing the assets as well as spousal support.
   3. a Collaborative attorney for each of you to advise you and your spouse of your legal rights and to help you both keep the negotiations interest-based and not position-based.
3. an atmosphere of co-operation, integrity, honesty and professionalism that focuses on the future well-being of the post-divorce family.
4. informal discussions and conferences to resolve all issues.

The benefits of the collaborative divorce approach include:

1. the Collaborative team helps you separate emotionally as well as legally and financially.
2. co-operation between you and your spouse allows the professionals to spend their time more efficiently and, thereby, help keep the cost of your divorce lower.
3. using the professional most qualified to address an issue keeps the cost under control.
4. an agreement tailored to the unique needs of each party is produced.
5. you and your spouse retain control over the outcome so the difficult process of divorce tends to be less stressful, more informative and more engaging than other methods.
6. the future well-being of your entire family is enhanced.
7. you leave this divorce process healthier than when you entered it.

How does the Collaborative approach actually work? More…