The end of a marriage is a painful process, and traditional divorce litigation usually increases the stress, anger, and bitterness during and afterward. But there is a better way.
The collaborative approach to divorce seeks to preserve relationships and peace of mind. Instead of encouraging competition and a combative environment, everyone involved works with a spirit of cooperation to produce solutions for the future. Instead of waiting for a judge to decide what should happen, you remain in control of the outcome.
At Reade Law Firm, PC, we have years of experience resolving divorce through both traditional litigation and the collaborative divorce process, so we understand the benefits collaborative divorce can provide. The depth and range of the experience of our team enables us to protect fully in all circumstances. We can help you determine whether collaborative divorce is the right choice for your situation, and guide you to the most advantageous solutions.
How Collaborative Divorce Works in Massachusetts
In a collaborative divorce, both parties commit to resolve their differences outside of court. They agree to share information about finances and other issues.
Instead of hiring attorneys who battle to impress a judge, each spouse works with an attorney who represents their interests while negotiating to find resolutions that work for everyone. In addition to legal advisors, a collaborative divorce team often includes neutral financial professionals who can help parties understand the ramifications of financial decisions and a mental health professional to help process the emotions that can interfere with decision-making.
The team meets in private to discuss the issues that need to be resolved in the divorce. Collaborative professionals are trained to keep discussions moving forward toward resolution. Once an agreement is reached on all elements, then the attorneys will draw up the paperwork to be filed with the court.
Collaborative divorce is similar to divorce mediation in many respects. However, in collaborative divorce, attorneys for both partners generally work together with their clients throughout the process, while in mediation, attorneys usually only meet with their clients outside of discussion sessions.
Determining Whether Collaborate Divorce is the Right Approach
The collaborative approach to divorce can work well in complex cases as well as more simplified matters. The key to success in collaborative divorce is attitude. Both parties need to be committed to work together to resolve differences.
That does not mean they need to agree on issues from the outset, because the attorneys and other professionals are trained to help them reach agreement on these issues. But if one spouse is not willing to disclose information or cooperate to create compromise decisions, then the collaborative approach may not be the best framework.
Work with the Team that Understands How to Gain the Most from the Collaborative Process in Massachusetts
At Reade Law Firm, PC, we know that the collaborative process protects families from unnecessary emotional distress, gives them more control over the outcome, and can keep costs down in a divorce. Our team excels at guiding clients toward solutions that meet the needs of the whole family.
To talk to us about how collaborative divorce could work in your situation, schedule a confidential consultation.