Every divorce is unique. While one couple divorces because of infidelity, another divorces because they simply cannot agree about how to run their small business. A couple might have few assets and no children while another might have children, multiple real estate properties, significant assets, and a severely strained relationship. This latter couple’s divorce would take significantly more time, money, and energy than the previous couple’s, simply because there are more issues to work out and more terms to settle before the divorce can be finalized. Because couples’ circumstances can vary so widely, so do the methods they use to end their marriages. For some couples, the only way to successfully divorce is through traditional litigation. For others, collaborative law is the right answer.
Is a collaborative divorce right for you and your spouse? Ask yourself the following questions to start this discussion. Collaborative divorces can only work if the divorcing spouses are able to work together to reach their settlement. If you think collaborative law could work for your divorce, the next step is to contact a divorce attorney who can guide you through the next steps of completing the divorce process.
Might my Spouse be Hiding Assets?
If either spouse is hiding assets in an attempt to keep them from being divided in the divorce, a collaborative divorce can not work. Collaborative divorce relies on the couple’s ability to be honest with each other and willing to discuss all matters related to their divorce. Some ways an individual might attempt to hide assets include moving bank accounts into another individual’s name or making significant purchases with cash.
Is There a History of Domestic Violence in My Relationship?
Couples who divorce through collaborative law need to be able to trust each other. If you are a victim of domestic violence or you have had issues related to domestic violence in the past, collaborative divorce might not be the right choice for you.
Can I Be Cordial with my Former Partner?
This comes down to your personalities. Can you realistically see yourself working with your former partner to divide your assets and determine a fair agreement about alimony? If you do not think you can do this, do not treat it as a personal failure. Be honest with yourself about the current state of your relationship with your spouse.
Am I Willing to Be Flexible?
With greater control over your divorce settlement than you would have if you divorce through litigation, you need to be willing to work with your former partner to satisfy both parties’ goals. This goes with the point above – are you willing and able to work with your spouse to meet your divorce goals?
Collaborative Divorce Attorney in Winter Park
Choosing a collaborative divorce could mean choosing a quicker, easier way to end your marriage. For more information about divorcing through collaborative law, contact an experienced Florida collaborative divorce attorney. Call Sperling Ducker today at 407-645-3297 to discuss your case and your individual needs with our firm during your initial legal consultation.