Unlike what many people think, divorce does not always have to turn into a battlefield. More and more couples in San Diego and throughout the state are realizing that they can separate amicably without stepping into a courtroom and damaging their relationship along the way. If you and your partner are ready to end your marriage, and you want to cooperate and do so respectfully, a collaborative divorce might be just what you need.
At Likeminds Divorce Mediation in San Diego, we have helped many couples navigate the divorce process with ease. While our primary focus is on divorce mediation, we understand how collaborative divorce works and want to help you understand it too. While mediation is typically a simpler and more cost-effective process, we understand that it is not always a viable option. In this article, we will explain how collaborative divorce works, why it is gaining popularity, and how it compares to mediation.
What Is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce enables couples to settle their divorce-related matters, including property division, child custody, and spousal support, outside of court. It is a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method. With collaborative divorce, both spouses commit to working together with the help of their respective lawyers to reach an agreement.
Apart from working with their respective collaboratively trained attorneys, couples work with other neutral professionals, such as child specialists and financial advisors, to find solutions that suit everyone. These professionals are there to offer support in their respective areas, providing a well-rounded approach to resolving issues constructively.
Collaborative divorce focuses on open communication, honesty, and problem-solving. This is quite different from traditional litigation, which often pits spouses against each other. In a collaborative divorce, spouses focus on finding solutions together, whereas in litigation, they focus on winning.
How Does the Collaborative Process Work?
The collaborative process generally involves several stages designed to ensure fairness and cooperation. Here are the key steps in the collaborative divorce process;
