What are the Benefits of a Collaborative Divorce? – Today’s guest blog is by Lieber Law Group, P.A. The opinions expressed by the author in this and all guest blogs are not necessarily those of Torrance Divorce Attorney.
What are the Benefits of a Collaborative Divorce?
The media often portrays divorce as an increasingly dramatic and scandalous affair. Conventional or litigated divorce can be like that, which makes it costly, time-consuming, and highly stressful. Fighting with your partner in a courtroom and becoming the subject of public scrutiny is not a pretty picture. Believe it or not, divorce does not have to be so contentious, challenging, protracted, and expensive. If you and your spouse are on relatively good terms, you may opt for a collaborative divorce. The divorcing parties can reach an agreement through negotiation and mediation, without stepping foot in court.
Both partners should hire their own attorney to facilitate the conversations and ensure protection of their interests. When spouses overcome conflict and work together, the divorce proceeds smoothly and swiftly. Family Law Attorney enlists some major benefits of a collaborative divorce:
1. Freedom of Time and Space
In a collaborative divorce, both parties get to set the pace of the proceedings. They can organize meetings at their convenience, at a time and place of their choice. There is no need to wait weeks or months for a court date, and adjust your schedule to show up at hearings. The divorce can be finalized quickly, given that both parties are ready to cooperate.
2. Maximum Control
In a litigated divorce, both parties have to trust and accept the judgment of the courtroom judge. They can express their opinions, yet have no real influence over the final decisions. Through a collaborative approach, both partners can maintain maximum control over the various matters of the divorce agreement. For example, they can work out a parenting plan that is flexible and accommodating for either of them.
3. Minimum Expenses
A collaborative divorce shall be wrapped up quickly, as there is no interference from law enforcement. You don’t have to pay hefty litigation fees, and you may rely on limited services of a divorce attorney. Apart from cutting down costs, you also save your nerves and energy.
4. Easier on the Children
Parents who terminate their marriage through a collaborative divorce are able to protect the children from their personal differences. Most of the time, partners agree on joint custody, and there are no disputes over alimony and child support. As a result, the child continues to receive the attention and affection of both parents, regardless of the modified living situation.
5. No Hostility
Partners who end their marriage via collaborative divorce are usually capable of maintaining a friendly relationship afterwards. Mutual consent and understanding is involved in the decision to divorce, so there is hardly room for grudges or hard feelings. They don’t have to avoid each other and moving on is much easier.
6. Effective Communication
The collaborative approach allows both parties to be candid and open about their feelings. The direct communication lets them realize each other’s position and make informed decisions. They don’t have to rely on a third party to sort out their issues and be coerced into an agreement that is not ideal for either of them.
7. Retains Privacy
When a divorce lands in court, the details and confidential information related to it becomes public record. If you and your spouse want to terminate the marriage low key and keep your personal matters private, a collaborative divorce is the answer.