What Distinguishes a Collaborative Practice Divorce

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A Collaborative Practice divorce promotes respect between the parties and allows the parties to be in control of the process, and not a judge. It allows each parties’ interests to be addressed, as well as the interests of the children.

In a Collaborative Practice divorce, a couple works with a team of collaboratively trained professionals to resolve disputes respectfully, while pledging to stay out of court. When pledging to stay out of court, the parties are able to control the process and outcome instead of the traditional litigation route where a judge decides the issues for a couple.

The parties pledge mutual respect for each other and an open and honest exchange of information between them. Mutual respect is fundamental to the collaborative process. In a traditional litigation style divorce the lack of effective communication between the parties is a critical issue, while the collaborative practice divorce encourages and supports the parties in communicating their interests, concerns, and goals.

When parties agree to not go to court, the result is a process that becomes more open and less adversarial than the traditional litigation divorce. Through enhanced communication, the couples begin to build a stronger foundation for a sounder and more productive relationship after the divorce is completed.

A Collaborative Practice divorce also allows the divorcing couple to manage the costs in a more economical and efficient manner. This process usually is less expensive than traditional litigation, and is completed in a shorter time frame. And, the collaborative process, open discussions, and negotiations are kept private and do not become a matter of public record as in a traditional litigation style divorce.

In conclusion, a Collaborative Practice divorce is more amicable and promotes respect between the parties. It is usually done in a more efficient and economical manner, and maintains privacy for the couple. And, most importantly, it helps build a sound foundation for the couple to deal with each other after the divorce has been completed.