In some instances, marriage isn’t going well.  In many of these cases, one or both parties know it.  They just are not happy.  They do not believe the marriage can continue on the current path.

When one or both parties feel this way, multiple options are out there.  In some situations, the parties may decide to go to marriage counseling.  When parties can agree to do this, this can be a good development.  Parties can either begin working on their marriage or, in some cases, the parties may conclude that the marriage probably won’t work.

Another option that is out there for many parties — that many do not know about — is collaborative family law.  Collaborative divorce is a unique process that was established through the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals.

Collaborative family law is different from an uncontested divorce.  It is also different from mediation.  It’s important to know the difference because the nuances are important.

In an uncontested divorce, the parties both essentially agree to the divorce.  They also agree on a comprehensive settlement.  In mediation, the parties meet with a neutral mediator to see if they can settle their divorce or family law matter.  Settlement usually assumes the divorce is going to happen.

With collaborative family law, the parties hire an attorney trained in collaborative family law.  They also enlist professionals to help them through the process.  For example, a divorce coach (or two), a financial neutral and a child custody professional can help guide the parties through the process and help the parties work together to resolve.  The parties work through this process and agree not to file a case in court while the process is in progress.

In some instances, the parties might be uncertain about whether they even want a divorce.  They might be on the fence entirely.  Collaborative family law can help parties where there is indecision about whether to get divorced by providing a forum and avenue where they can have lengthy discussions.  It can also help parties envision how might look after a divorce if they decided to go through with it.  On the other hand, the parties could ultimately decide that reconciliation is a better path as well.

If you are going through a divorce where there is uncertainty, Stange Law Firm, PC can help.  You can contact us at 1-855-805-0595.