On behalf of Gary Kirk of Kirk Montoute Dawson LLP posted in Collaborative Law on Saturday, July 4, 2015.
When a couple decides to divorce there are many decision that need to be made. Before a discussion about how the assets will be divided can occur, the couple must first decide what method they want to use to accomplish their goal of ending their marriage. While some will end up in court, others find a less adversarial approach is best. For those who find themselves in this situation, collaborative divorce could be the best approach. For this approach to work, couples must be able to find a way to work together.
While there are multiple reasons why a couple might opt for this route, finances often play a role. The process of divorcing is not cheap and the more a couple spends on the actual divorce process itself, the less there is left to divide. Because starting a new chapter of life as a single person is an expensive endeavour, this is relevant to many people.
Among other reasons, the collaborative divorce process is less expensive because generally fewer lawyers are involved. While both parties will have a lawyer to represent them, there are other professionals involved to address issues that arise. These professionals include:
- Child specialists
- Financial neutrals
- Therapists who have received training in the collaborative model
This model, sometimes referred to as “divorce for grownups,” does not work for everyone. When it doesn’t work it can result in additional expense because a couple must then go the traditional route. Because of this it is important that couples give the matter serious consideration prior to making the decision to go with collaborative divorce.
Related Posts: Collaborative law may be the answer for some Alberta couples, Collaborative law: Your RRSP funds and divorce, Collaborative law — is it the right choice for your divorce?, Can collaborative law help couples avoid parental alienation?