Sometimes, it is due to years of constant arguments. Sometimes, it is due to a shift in behavior or world views. And, sometimes, it's just two people who have drifted apart and are no longer compatible. Whatever the precipitating circumstances, the decision to divorce can be a difficult one, even if it's the right one. People in Colorado who are seeking a divorce may be afraid that it will bring out the worst in them and their ex. However, it need not be. That is because there are alternatives to traditional divorce litigation. One of them is a collaborative divorce.
A collaborative divorce promotes cooperation between those ending a marriage. It can be less stressful for all involved, setting the groundwork for a more stable future. In a collaborative divorce, each spouse, along with their attorney, agree to negotiate the divorce in a fair way, and they also agree that they will attempt to avoid litigation. In fact, to cement that commitment, if the collaborative divorce process fails and the divorce goes to court, the attorneys must bow out of the case and each spouse will need to find a new attorney.
Collaborative divorces began in the late 1980's or early 1990's. Other professionals besides attorneys can be involved, such as therapists, accountants and a divorce coach. Divorce coaches can be especially valuable, as they often serve as "translators" between the parties. When the parties are able to communicate to end their marriage in an appropriate fashion, it can help them have a functional relationship once the divorce is final, which is especially important if they have children. In addition, by agreeing to reaching an appropriate settlement, the collaborative law process can make a divorce fairer, even if one party earns more money than the other.
In the end, collaborative divorce requires the commitment of all involved. However, when it works, it provides a means for both sides to feel satisfied with the outcome of their divorce. Those who want more information about collaborative law may want to seek legal advice.
Source: The Huffington Post, "The Collaborative Divorce: A Litigator Explains," Robi Ludwig, Nov. 2, 2017
Tags: Collaborative Law
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