If you are contemplating divorce, you and your spouse may be thinking about your options, such as how to avoid litigation and whether you should pursue mediation or collaborative divorce. Both approaches have their respective advantages and disadvantages, so the method you choose should depend on your unique circumstances. Here is some information intended to help you make the right choice for you and to distinguish between the collaborative approach and mediation.
What is collaborative divorce?
In a collaborative divorce, lawyers will represent you and your spouse. The attorneys and both spouses will need to sign a "no court" agreement, which means the attorneys will need to withdraw if an agreement cannot be reached and the case ends up going to court. The collaborative process involves four-way meetings between the two spouses and the two attorneys. In some cases, the attorneys will recommend hiring collaborative professionals. A collaborative divorce is also flexible and informal. Compared to litigation, a collaborative divorce is more efficient and less expensive.