Making the life changing decision to divorce is often overwhelming. There are many things to consider, such as how the children will be affected and how you will restructure your family moving forward. Making the decision on how to accomplish your divorce can be as important as the decision to divorce itself. Collaborative divorce can help couples move more quickly through the divorce process. Couples using collaborative divorce often have a less stressful experience and can create more positive relationships in the future compared to traditional divorce.
There are many myths surrounding divorce and the options available. Read on as we debunk three common myths surrounding collaborative divorce:
1. My spouse and I don’t agree, so collaborative divorce is not an option. Almost all divorcing couples will have disagreements to work through. You and your spouse will work with a team of professionals during the process to find solutions to each issue in your divorce. The team of collaborative professionals helps couples find creative solutions that a court might never consider. Do you really want a Judge, a stranger with the bare minimum information about your family, to make decisions for you?
2. We have kids and we can’t agree on custody without a traditional divorce. Collaborative divorce is an excellent option for couples with children. Both parents will be able to present their wishes and circumstances to neutral experts. These experts will then help the two of you create an arrangement that addresses the best interests of the children. The courts are very happy when couples successfully work out their own arrangements regarding co-parenting.
3. We have a lot of assets, so we have to do formal discovery through a traditional divorce. While collaborative divorce does not have a formal discovery process, the requirements of disclosure are the same as in a traditional divorce setting. In collaborative divorce a neutral financial specialist is there to investigate, research and review all information to make sure that everything is fully disclosed. The neutral financial specialist makes sure that all concerns and questions have been addressed. Collaborative divorce may be a great option for you and your spouse even if your case seems complicated. Both parties involved will have a chance to have their voices heard, and the opportunity to work through their differences in a more private and confidential setting. You may have more control over your situation and thus avoid the uncertain outcomes