Divorce is an arduous process. Your emotions may be all over the place, and your mind may be racing with concerns as you try to decide how to proceed. The welfare of your children weighs heavily on your mind, and a lot of choices need to be made. You may have no idea where to begin.
Deciding on a divorce process, whether standard or collaborative, is the first step. Conventional divorce is one option. This takes place in a court. The procedure can be emotionally taxing, lengthy and incredibly unpleasant at times. If you prefer not to deal with that, you might consider a collaborative divorce.
In a collaborative divorce, the parties work together to resolve their differences outside of the courtroom, saving time and money. The goal is to reach a mutually agreeable resolution through the use of mediation and negotiation.
How a collaborative divorce works
Prior to the commencement of negotiations, both parties and their legal representatives must sign an agreement that affirms their commitment to the collaborative divorce process. Negotiations can commence once the parties sign the agreement. The two parties will need to discuss things like the following:
- Spousal support
- Child support
- Child custody and visitation guidelines
- Division of finances and assets
- Marital property management
Following the negotiation of divorce terms, your legal representatives will prepare a settlement agreement for both parties to endorse. The judge will establish it as the final divorce judgment if they deem it fair and reasonable. If the judge rejects the settlement, they will order further negotiations.
During negotiations, avoid accepting uncomfortable terms just to get things done. Having sound legal guidance will help you work toward a mutually beneficial agreement for you and your children.