Regardless of how modern and accepting our society has become, the term divorce still carries a stigma. When two people in a marriage decide to end their relationship through divorce, it is often assumed that there will be a drawn out custody battle involving children or several heated discussions regarding the division of assets. Although this is often true, there are also divorce proceedings that end amicably where both divorcees actually remain friends. Sometimes, both spouses even re-marry and are able to provide their children with birthdays where both families can be present and get along. It may not always be common, but it can be possible when a couple participates in a collaborative divorce.
What is a Collaborative Divorce?
Typically, a divorce can result in a long litigation process where the courts get involved. In a collaborative divorce, the court system is avoided and a couple, with their attorneys, use a more cooperative approach to resolve issues related to the dissolution of their marriage. A collaborative divorce should not be confused with the mediation process where a neutral third party helps a couple agree on the terms of their divorce.
In a collaborative divorce, each spouse enlists the help of an attorney, and they all work together to hash out the terms of the pending divorce. In fact, not only is participating in a collaborative divorce less stressful, it can even be faster and cost less money than traditional divorce litigation. In a study conducted by the IACP Research Committee, 58 percent of collaborative divorce cases were completed within eight months. Additionally, a moderately difficult collaborative divorce cost an average of $21,633. A traditional divorce can cost significantly more, especially if the parties cannot settle and the case goes to trial.
Benefits of A Collaborative Divorce
One of the cornerstones of a favorable outcome in a collaborative divorce is the free exchange of information. This is usually achieved through open lines of communication between both parties to the divorce. Participating in a collaborative divorce allows both spouses to voice their concerns on several issues and come to an agreement without having a judge doing it for them. This provides both parties with a greater sense of control in the final divorce agreement and can make life after divorce much more pleasant, for not only the parties involved, but for their children as well.
Contact an Experienced Illinois Collaborative Divorce Attorney
Although a collaborative divorce can be beneficial if you and your spouse are contemplating divorce in Illinois, it is essential that each of you consult a knowledgeable DuPage County collaborative divorce lawyer. The lawyers at Sullivan Taylor, Gumina & Palmer, P.C. are experienced in collaborative divorce law and can help you resolve your divorce swiftly so that both of you can move on with your lives.
