In a collaborative divorce scenario, spouses fully commit to resolving their disagreements outside of the family court system. They settle all financial and parenting matters privately and then submit their final agreements to the courts for approval.
When divorcing spouses share children, reaching an agreement regarding custody arrangements can prove relatively challenging. Working with outside specialists may help parents keep the focus on their children and reach appropriate custody arrangements for the family.
What professionals can help?
People collaborating during divorce often work with mediators and financial advisors. They may also need to work with mental health professionals to ensure that their custody arrangements are in the best interests of their children.
Some parents may agree to attend co-parenting counseling with one another. They may have already attempted couples counseling or family counseling to address changes in the family unit or work on the marital dynamic.
A mental health professional familiar with the children’s perspectives and the family dynamics can provide useful insight for parents trying to divide parenting time and legal authority. Outside professionals should focus on the children instead of on the desires of the parents.
Their suggestions and guidance may make it easier for parents to settle their disputes and reach a collaborative agreement regarding custody matters. Terms proposed based on what is best for the children can be easier for parents to agree on than terms they propose based on their own preferences.
Working together to settle custody disagreements can help parents during a peaceful, collaborative divorce. The support of legal professionals and other experts can make collaborative divorce achievable even in cases where parents currently disagree intensely on custody terms.