Deciding to divorce is rarely easy, and the process itself can be taxing. Sorting out property division and visitation schedules can be especially difficult when emotions are running high. However, divorce is not the tedious, cut-and-dry process most people think it is. Nowadays, you have a few options when it comes to dissolving a marriage–and collaborative divorce is one of the best.
Collaborative divorce works a little differently than traditional litigation, though. Whereas a judge makes all the important decisions for a couple in a traditional divorce proceeding, couples jointly create these agreements in a collaborative divorce, only bringing the finalized documents to a judge for signatures at the end.
Of course, both routes have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, there’s no denying that collaborative divorce offers the best of what both traditional divorce litigation and mediation have to offer–here are three reasons why.
1. Collaborative Divorce Costs Less
We’re not just talking about money, either. Divorce can be hard on every family member, especially children. Having a judge review all the details of your marriage and make decisions one by one can also be a lengthy and draining process, leaving you emotionally tapped out.
However, collaborative divorce lets you and your spouse informally work together to create a no-fuss agreement that won’t financially or emotionally drain either of you. Since collaborative divorce is often speedier and more efficient than traditional litigation, your bank account won’t take nearly as big of a hit, either.
2. You’re In Control
If the thought of putting these important decisions in the hands of an impartial third party freaks you out, you’re not alone. While traditional litigation may work for couples who can’t see eye-to-eye, it leaves you pretty powerless.
Of course, both you and your spouse will each have your own attorneys who can help you with the legal side of things in a collaborative divorce. But even so, the increased autonomy is hard to beat if you and your spouse are adamant about splitting property or childcare in a very particular way.
3. More Privacy
Traditional divorce proceedings are on the public record, meaning your average Joe can look up your divorce case and comb through all the nitty-gritty details. However, most couples would naturally prefer to keep their divorce cases private.
You don’t have to worry about this with collaborative divorce since you’re settling these affairs outside of the court. Like mediation, all the details of your collaborative divorce case will be kept confidential. This makes it a particularly attractive option if you’re in the public eye or if there are some more sensitive circumstances surrounding your case.
If you’re interested in dissolving your marriage through collaborative divorce, our firm can help you. Andrea L. Gamalski Attorney & Counselor at Law takes pride in being there for clients every step of the way, and we’d love to help you. To schedule your free consultation, call us today at 1-845-853-8036.
Andrea L. Gamalski Attorneys at Law
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