Getting a divorce is a big decision and one that will initiate a series of other questions. For instance, you’ve decided to divorce, but how will you divorce? There are many different approaches to the divorce process. One that has recently garnered more attention is collaborative divorce. Collaborative divorce has become more popular in recent years as people hear more and more about its many benefits.
In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse work together to reach mutually agreed-upon decisions regarding the many issues incident to divorce. It helps each spouse have more control over the process and aids in the preservation of any positive aspects of the relationship that still exist. Keeping and fostering goodwill between you and your soon to be former spouse is especially important when there are children resulting from the marriage. While there are benefits to collaborative divorce, it is not a process built for everyone. You and your spouse need to be on the same page if you are going to take on this approach.
Tips for Discussing a Collaborative Divorce with Your Spouse
Approaching your spouse about collaborative divorce is a delicate matter, especially when you consider the fact that you have also come to the major decision to divorce in the first place. It is important to have this conversation, however, as it is critical to the collaborative divorce process that both spouses be fully invested in it working as it is designed to work. Both parties must be all in on a collaborative divorce. It takes a willingness on the part of both spouses to fully participate in a collaborative divorce for it to be successful.
When looking to broach the subject of collaborative divorce, try and find a less stressful time to have this conversation. These moments can be few and far between when you are approaching divorce and may have children running around as well. However, some times are less stressful than others. Look for those times. Do not bring it up in a fight. Be prepared to share information with your spouse about collaborative divorce and what it is. Provide him or her with other resources about collaborative divorce to review.
Explain why you support the idea of collaborative divorce and how it fits in with your vision for your family’s future. A collaborative divorce is a team effort. You and your spouse will work together through the central issues of divorce. This will give you more control over the divorce process than you would have if a court had to intervene. It will also help you and your spouse develop and maintain the ability to work together, as you will have to do if you co-parent.
Florida Collaborative Divorce Attorneys
Collaborative divorce has many benefits, but it is also not for everyone. If you have any questions about collaborative divorce, talk to the knowledgeable attorneys at the Orlando Family Team. We can help you explore whether collaborative divorce would be a good fit for you and your family. Contact us today.