Divorce can be time-consuming, exhausting and expensive – but sometimes people choose collaborative divorce, which can be simpler and easier.
What is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce is an option for couples who can work out a divorce settlement on their own (or with the use of a mediator), but still need the legal protections available when working with a divorce attorney. A collaborative divorce requires the couple to be able to negotiate and maintain a functional relationship, though, which means it’s not right for everyone.
Related: Negotiations and divorce: Setting ground rules
Collaborative Divorce: Looking for a Win-Win
One of the reasons many people choose collaborative divorce is that they want a win-win outcome rather than a win-lose outcome. That means they want to walk away from the process feeling as if they’ve both won and they’re reasonably satisfied with the outcome, rather than someone “winning” and someone “losing.”
What About Court?
If the process breaks down and the parties have to go to court, where a judge will decide the outcome of the case (including on important matters like custody and spousal maintenance), most people feel as if they’ve lost something. And while judges do their best to remain fair and impartial, they don’t know your family like you do – which means you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse are the best-qualified people to make decisions that will affect the rest of your (and your children’s) lives.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Collaborative Divorce?
When you’re considering divorce, collaboration with your spouse may be the best option for you. Call us right now at 414-383-6700 to schedule a consultation with an experienced Milwaukee divorce attorney to learn about your options.
