There are three main methods of divorce that are typically utilized by couples: Mediation, Collaborative Divorce, and Litigation. We’ll dive into each one below, and by the time you’ve finished this short read, you’ll better understand which route could work best for you.
Perhaps you’ve spent some time researching what you should do first when you’re asked for a divorce. If you haven’t, you can read up on this here.
Mediation
During mediation, we help couples work out the details of their divorce. Together, we guide you through the negotiation process, and make recommendations for dividing assets and debts that financially benefit both parties. Each spouse will share important financial information and documentation so we can determine the overall financial picture of the marriage.
If you’re already working with a mediator, we can still assist from a purely financial standpoint. As Certified Divorce Financial Analysts®, we can help by providing projections based on different settlement scenarios for you and your spouse.
Mediation is a confidential process, and we operate as an impartial third party; our only goal is determine the best possible outcome for both parties. Additionally, mediation can save you time, money, and undue stress by making important decisions outside of a courtroom.
You can further explore mediation in this article.
Collaborative Divorce
This is similar to mediation in that the goal remains the same, but the process is different. In a Collaborative Divorce, we still work for both parties, but each spouse attends with their collaboratively-trained attorneys present.
Additionally, this team might include a specialist trained in resolving family issues such as a collaboratively trained therapist. This specialist is an expert in navigating problems pertaining to children and other family dependents, and addressing any general communication issues throughout the process.
We’ll still work cooperatively to resolve disagreements, and to help couples reach mutually beneficial decisions that are best for the short and long term financial health of both divorcing parties. Think of us as a vital part of your divorce team.
Each spouse must agree to take a fair, candid, and honest approach to ending the marriage before the Collaborative Divorce process can begin. If your divorce is a candidate for the Collaborative process, chat with an expert who has been trained in Collaborative Divorce.
Litigation
When a divorcing couple decides to litigate, it means the court system will dictate how custody, support, debts, and assets are awarded to each spouse if the couple cannot come to an agreement. Litigation occurs when the two parties are unable to resolve important issues through Mediation or Collaborative Divorce (or they simply choose to forego these first two options).
Sometimes litigation is necessary. The unfortunate reality, however, is that it’s often much more time consuming, expensive, and emotionally taxing for both parties, including any children involved.
If litigation is the best decision for you, we’re here to advocate on your behalf. In this scenario, we only collaborate with you and your attorney. As trained Certified Divorce Financial Analysts®, we work diligently to organize all relevant financial information for your case. We calculate and share financial projections based on different potential outcomes, so you know which decisions are the best for your long-term financial health.
We can also work with your attorney to help create exhibits or supply testimony that supports your position and our recommendations. We’ll bring the entire financial landscape into focus, allowing you to negotiate or advocate from a position of clarity and strength.
Call us at 877-471-4654 to learn more about how a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® can work with you and/or your attorney in order to create the best possible outcome from your divorce.
