Collaborative divorce: A solution to property division quarrels?

On Behalf of | Jun 20, 2017 | Collaborative Law |

Navigating the divorce process in New Hampshire can understandably be difficult due to the financial and emotional challenges associated with it. In some divorce cases, the process is relatively straightforward, as the two parties agree on virtually all matters. However, the dissolution of a marriage can be especially confusing if you and your spouse do not agree on many issues.

You and your spouse might not be able to see eye to eye on matters such as property division, spousal support or child custody. However, that does not mean you have to rely on a judge to resolve these issues for you. Instead, you can address them through the collaborative divorce process.

Collaborative divorce

In collaborative divorce, two spouses who are going through divorce focus on negotiating and troubleshooting to resolve their problems, rather than fighting to win against the other party. Some courts require couples to complete the collaborative divorce process before choosing litigation. However, collaborative divorce works only when both sides are committed to making it work. If one of the parties is reluctant, then the negotiations and mediation that take place during collaborative divorce may not be fruitful.

Why should I choose collaborative divorce?

Going the collaborative divorce route offers a multitude of advantages over going to trial. For instance, you save money and time, and you can engage in negotiations in an informal setting, which is much less stressful than being in court. Also, the exchange of information is honest, open and free.

An added benefit of collaborative divorce is that you can go ahead and determine how you and your future ex will address disputes that crop up after you have reached your settlement. Being proactive in this way can help to prevent unnecessary conflict and financial costs down the road.

What role will my attorney play?

During a collaborative divorce proceeding involving matters such as property division, you will hire your own attorney and will meet with the attorney privately to discuss what you want. For instance, you can share with your attorney the minimum amount of money you are okay with getting in spousal support.

The more your New Hampshire lawyer knows, the more effectively he or she can advocate for you at the negotiation table. Your attorney’s ultimate goal is to help you to achieve a settlement that will meet your needs and benefit you in the long run.