Divorce can be difficult for Florida families. Even couples who mutually agree to separate will go through a myriad of emotions as they navigate the process.
Getting divorced doesn’t mean that you and your soon-to-be ex can’t work together, though. Couples who are willing to work through the process together might be able to go through a collaborative divorce.
What makes collaborative divorce different?
Regular divorce involves individuals hiring separate attorneys and settling things in a court of law. In collaborative divorces, there’s no court involved.
The couple will sign a no-court agreement, instead agreeing to work collaboratively toward a mutually agreeable divorce settlement. Both individuals will hire their own attorneys and the attorneys will work with the couple to negotiate an agreement.
Benefits of collaborative divorces
Collaborative divorces can be a great alternative for families with children. Working together means the process goes smoother, reducing the stress for the children involved.
It can also be more cost-cost effective. While both spouses will hire their own attorneys, they’ll usually agree to split the costs of other professionals – like mediators or even counselors – equitably if not equally. And no court means there are no courtroom fees.
When is collaborative divorce not a good idea?
If you and your spouse are prone to arguments over simple discussions, that’s a big sign collaborative divorce isn’t for you. Additionally, collaborative divorce isn’t a good idea if only one person filed for divorce and it wasn’t a mutual decision.
You have to do what’s best for you and your children – regardless of what that looks like or how difficult it may be. A collaborative divorce may be ideal, but there’s no harm in admitting that the practice isn’t for you.