Illinois Collaborative Divorce Explained

 Posted on March 28, 2024 in Divorce

Labels can sometimes be useful because they help us understand the world by organizing it into various categories that share common traits. However, most people do not fit perfectly into labels. Things that work for one person might not work for another, and the way one person reacts to something can be completely different from how someone else would react to the same situation.

That is why there are several different ways of ending a marriage. Every couple, including couples who no longer want to be together, has its own unique dynamic and ways of dealing with situations. For some couples, the idea of fighting out their divorce in court simply does not suit them. People who meet the conditions necessary and have the means required to do so might consider trying to end their marriage through what is known as collaborative divorce. This article will explain what that means, and if this seems like it might be a good option for you to consider, speak with an experienced Arlington Heights, IL divorce attorney to find out more.

What Is Involved in Collaborative Divorce?

While couples can go through a collaborative divorce without children, it tends to be a particularly beneficial way for parents to end their marriage, as it places a great deal of emphasis on the child’s wellbeing. A team of specialists and experts is formed to help the couple end their marriage and not only formulate a parenting plan based on the child’s best interests but also help the child cope with this time of change and transition. The team brought on for a collaborative divorce generally includes:

• Family therapists
• Child psychologists
• Financial advisors
• Tax specialists and accountants
• Each spouse’s respective collaborative divorce lawyer

Is Collaborative Divorce the Best Option?

While collaborative divorce can be a relatively smooth way for a couple to officially end their marriage, this method is generally only successful when couples can demonstrate willingness to negotiate in good faith, trust each other, and compromise. Collaborative divorce is not recommended in high-conflict divorce or cases that involve emotional or physical abuse.

It is important to note that if your attempts to finalize a collaborative divorce are unsuccessful, the team of professionals is dissolved, and the couple needs to pursue divorce litigation. The collaborative divorce attorneys can no longer represent the spouses, and new divorce lawyers will need to be hired.

Contact an Illinois Collaborative Divorce Lawyer

If you and your spouse are interested in a collaborative divorce, an experienced Arlington Heights, IL divorce attorney can explain what is involved and help guide you through the process. Call A. Traub & Associates at 847-749-4182 so we can get started.