If you are considering a divorce, one of the things you may be worried about is having to go to court. You should know that there are other ways to resolve a divorce that does not involve taking your case to court. Collaborative divorce and divorce mediation are both methods that do not involve going to court. Speak to a Salt Lake City divorce attorney to know more about the differences and which method is right for you.
What is a collaborative divorce?
In a collaborative divorce, neither party applies for a divorce. Instead, they both enter a ‘Collaborative Agreement.’ In a collaborative agreement, both partners get into a mutual agreement about all the issues regarding the dissolution of marriage, which is done before filing in court. These issues may include child custody, property rights, alimony, child support, etc. The Collaborative Agreement is a legally binding contract that has its limitations.
What is divorce mediation?
Divorce mediation is an alternative method for couples who want to dissolve their marriage but do not want to take legal action. In this, a mediator helps the couple resolve the issues such as child custody, child support, property division, and anything else that needs to be taken care of. The mediator can be anyone; it does not necessarily have to be a lawyer. However, it is common for family law attorneys to help with divorce mediation.
Things to consider when deciding the best option for you
If you are choosing between a collaborative divorce and mediation, you may want to consider the following:
- Are you and your partner able to work together to find common ground?
- How much do you and your partner know about family finances?
- What is the financial condition of you and your family?
Is mediation cheaper than collaborative divorce?
A collaborative divorce may be more expensive simply because more people are required for the process. You will need financial planners and counselors and have to pay for them. In divorce mediation, you will have to pay for the attorney and maybe an expert if needed.
Are you and your partner considering divorce?
If you and your spouse are considering a divorce, you should know that there are many divorce options. It may be frustrating and confusing if you do not know which option to go for. Talking to an experienced divorce attorney can make this easier by helping you understand each option and its legal procedures.
