Collaborative Divorce

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Collaborative Divorce

If you are considering divorce, you may be wondering about the different types of divorce available to you. In Florida, one common type of divorce is known as a collaborative divorce. This type of divorce is different from other types of divorce in that it involves both spouses working together to reach a settlement. An experienced collaborative divorce attorney in Florida can walk you through how the process works, and the pros and cons of this type of divorce. Together, you and your lawyer can determine whether collaborative divorce is the best path forward for you and your family.

Understanding Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce is a process whereby both spouses work together to reach a settlement. This type of divorce can be beneficial because it allows both spouses to have a say in the outcome of the divorce. It can also help to reduce the cost of divorce, as both spouses will be working together with their attorneys to negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement. However, collaborative divorce can also be more difficult than other types of divorce, as it requires both spouses to be able to communicate and work together. If the process falls apart and the spouses are unable to collaborate on a divorce settlement, then they will need to start over again, at square one, in court, and with new attorneys.

What is Involved in Collaborative Divorce?

In order to begin the process of collaborative divorce, both spouses must first agree to divorce collaboratively. Once this agreement has been made, both spouses will meet with their respective attorneys to discuss the divorce. During these meetings, both spouses and their attorneys will work together to negotiate a settlement. Once a settlement has been reached, the divorce will be finalized in court by a judge.

A collaborative divorce is, by definition, a team effort and these teams often comprise more than just the spouses and their respective attorneys. Other team members often include a financial neutral, who is tasked with being an objective presence that helps couples find, organize, and understand their financial information. Financial neutrals also educate and help spouses envision and create a plan for settlement. Often, these individuals carry the title of Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA).

Another common team member in a collaborative divorce is the facilitator, also referred to as a facilitator neutral. This team member acts as an objective team leader and communication specialist throughout the proceedings. Often, these individuals have a license in fields such as marriage and family counseling or conflict management. The facilitator’s job is to ensure the divorce proceedings are carried out peacefully and information is communicated effectively throughout the process.

 

What Can Spouses Expect During Collaborative Divorce?

During the process of collaborative divorce, both spouses can expect to have a say in the outcome of the divorce. This can be beneficial for couples who are able to communicate and work together. However, it is important to note that not all couples will be able to reach a settlement through collaborative divorce. If this occurs, the divorce will need to be finalized in court.

 

The Pros and Cons of Collaborative Divorce

There are both pros and cons to collaborative divorce. Some of the benefits of this type of divorce include the fact that it can be less expensive than other types of divorce, as both spouses will be working together and the entire process will likely be shorter than a litigated divorce. It can also be beneficial because it allows both spouses to have a say in the outcome of the divorce. However, some of the drawbacks of collaborative divorce include the fact that it can be more difficult than other types of divorce, as it requires both spouses to be able to communicate and work together.

 

The Cost of Collaborative Divorce

The cost of a collaborative divorce can vary depending on the complexity of the divorce and the number of meetings required. However, it is generally less expensive than other types of divorce, as both spouses will be working together with their divorce attorneys, and they will not have to pay for protracted litigation.

 

How to Get Started with Collaborative Divorce in Florida

For years, the attorneys at CPLS, P.A. have been helping spouses Orlando and throughout Florida as they navigate the process involved in finalizing a divorce. Contact Anthony Diaz and CPLS, P.A. today for insight into your unique case.