Divorce is often perceived as a lengthy, costly and emotionally draining process. However, it does not have to play out that way. With the right approach, you can achieve an amicable and efficient resolution of your divorce without necessarily breaking the bank or enduring a long process.
Alternative dispute resolution methods such as divorce mediation and collaborative divorce instead of the traditional court process can help you save a lot of time and money. They can also help mitigate the adverse effects of the divorce process on everyone involved — more so the children.
Divorce mediation involves a neutral third party who acts as the mediator to help couples negotiate and reach a mutually agreeable settlement. On the other hand, a collaborative divorce is facilitated by both spouses and their legal teams, who commit to resolving all issues outside the courtroom.
Make the most of these less adversarial approaches
Both divorce mediation and collaborative divorce encourage open communication and cooperation, allowing both sides to express their needs and concerns. This reduces conflict, which is what makes divorce expensive and time-consuming.
In addition, avoiding the courtroom can minimize the legal procedures associated with settling a divorce. You will not be at the mercy of tight court schedules that can considerably lengthen divorce proceedings. Avoiding prolonged court battles and the ensuing legal fees can make the divorce much less expensive that a litigated divorce would be.
Beyond saving time and money, other perks include being in control over the divorce process and outcome, maintaining confidentiality of your sensitive personal affairs and preserving a positive post-divorce relationship with your former spouse. That’s particularly important if you’re going to be co-parenting. If the end of your marriage is inevitable, seeking legal guidance can help you understand your options to reach a cordial settlement.