Collaborative Divorce uses a “team model” approach to divorce, using unique collaborative negotiation skills to facilitate a better understanding of the issues and the consequences of choices each the parties must make to keep options clearer and better outcomes for each of the parties involved. In many cases, when participants can amicably work together, the outcomes are better, and costs are lower when using a Collaborative approach.
WHAT IS COLLABORATIVE DIVORCE AND WILL IT WORK FOR ME?
To reach agreements using the Collaborative Practice process, all parties begin by agreeing not to go to court. You, your lawyer, your spouse, and your spouse’s lawyer sign a written contract that commits all of you to a series of meetings in which you will work creatively in collaboration with each other to arrive at agreements out of court. In most cases, financial and mental health professionals are also involved. This approach is referred to as the “team model” of Collaborative Practice. These professionals can save you both time and money by advising on financial issues, managing communication (and emotions) as well as focusing on child care issues. Their skills facilitate a better understanding of the issues and the consequences of choices the parties must make, and thus can make the options clearer and the outcome most beneficial to everyone involved.
The primary forum for negotiating an agreement is via meetings involving both parties, their two lawyers, and occasionally professionals (family therapists, for example.) It usually takes several team meetings to resolve all the issues. Between meetings, each party meets separately with his or her lawyer or other professionals as needed.
However, the Collaborative process is certainly not for everyone. In general, parties must be amicable and share common goals and perceived outcomes. The very nature of being collaborative means parties should be able to work together, particularly on difficult issues. Fortunately, we are here to help. But certainly, some divorces can only be dealt with in a litigious, traditional courtroom setting. We are here to coach, advise and work with you on all of your divorce options.
At Weibrecht & Ecker, PLLC we are trained in divorce-specific Mediation, Divorce, and Collaborative Divorce practices – and regularly engage in Family Law-specific training.
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We know that getting a divorce is difficult, and the legal team at Weibrecht & Ecker is committed to maintaining your privacy and making the divorce process as easy as possible.