Chicago Collaborative Divorce Lawyer
Going through a divorce can be challenging, even for the judges who have to make the decisions. That’s why the courts try to encourage divorcing couples to make things as easy as possible. Things are more comfortable when the parties can agree and the parties are more likely to get what they want. Collaborative divorce can help with this.
Through the process of collaborative divorce, couples can negotiate all the terms of their divorce without fighting in court. It involves the use of mediation and negotiation in order for couples to reach an agreement on the major aspects of divorce, such as asset and debt division, child custody, child support, and alimony.
Collaborative divorce is a great option for getting your divorce finalized quickly, especially if you have children involved. See how a Chicago collaborative divorce lawyer from Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC can help you with the process.
What is the Process?
The collaborative divorce process requires that both spouses participate, so there needs to be a conversation between the spouses to ensure they are willing to work together. Each spouse needs an attorney, so be sure to hire someone experienced in alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation. The best lawyer will focus on getting a win-win settlement for both parties.
Next, you will want to discuss with your attorney what you want from the divorce. You should discuss topics such as assets, debts, alimony, child custody, and child support. If there are 401ks, pension plans, or other retirement plans involved, you will want to discuss how they should be split.
You and your lawyer should also start assembling a collaborative divorce team. Your team may vary, but will likely include a divorce coach, financial specialist, and child specialist (if you have kids). These specialists will work jointly with you and your spouse to help you and your spouse find the best options so you can arrive at the resolutions that will help you get the best outcome possible.
Next, you and your attorney need to meet with your spouse and their attorney over the course of several meetings. You may be asked to sign a “no court” agreement, which allows both attorneys to withdraw from your case if either spouse begins litigation in court. This agreement holds each party accountable and gives them incentive to negotiate, even when the conversation gets difficult. If anyone on your team withdraws from the case, you’ll need to hire a new team, which can be very expensive.
Contact Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC Today
Collaborative divorce can make it less stressful to end your marriage. If you are divorcing, you need the right legal team on your side.
Seek legal help from Birnbaum Gelfman Sharma & Arnoux, LLC. While collaborative divorce won’t allow you to get everything, we’ll do our best to get you a favorable outcome. Schedule a consultation with a Chicago collaborative divorce attorney today to get started. Call (312) 863-2800 or fill out the online form.
