If you know someone who has been through a divorce, you may have heard the horror stories of two people who once loved each other doing whatever they can to take each other down in court. However, divorce does not have to be that way. The collaborative divorce process allows you and your spouse to calmly negotiate the terms of your divorce settlement agreement without ever having to step foot into a courtroom.
If you decide that a collaborative divorce is right for you, your first step will be meeting with an attorney to discuss your priorities, goals and preferences relating to property division, custody, child support, alimony, and other divorce-related issues.
Experts and specialists can help the collaborative divorce process
A collaborative divorce typically requires a team of experts and specialists to help you and your spouse navigate the complex issues of divorce. Your team may include:
- Divorce coach: It is easy to let emotions take over during the divorce process. A divorce coach can encourage healthy communication and make sure that every decision you make is well thought out.
- Financial specialist: Asset division is often the most complicated part of the divorce. A financial expert can help you evaluate your options and come up with a plan that will help you and your spouse maintain financial stability once the divorce is finalized.
- Child specialist: If you have children, a child specialist can help you come up with a parenting plan that caters to the child’s needs. The child specialist will be focused on doing what is in the best interest of your children.
- Attorneys: Your attorney can be your voice and represent you throughout the process. Similarly, your spouse’s attorney can do the same for them. Both attorneys will work together to come up with settlement terms that fit your needs as a family.
The collaborative process can be beneficial to couples who want to avoid the stress, expense, and turmoil of a traditional divorce. If you are interested in a collaborative divorce, an attorney specializing in mediation and collaborative law in the Oakland area can review your case and help determine whether it is right for you.
