While divorce may ultimately be the best choice for your family, such a huge change is difficult for everyone. Every divorce is different, but an experienced lawyer will be able to help you find a resolution that focuses on positive outcomes for your family.
Divorcing outside of court
Some divorces require litigation in court. However, going in front of a judge is not your only choice. There are options within Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) that could be a better option for you.
The first is mediation. This option requires you and your spouse to work with an unbiased third party, a mediator, to come up with a solution. The mediator is there to facilitate healthy and productive conversation, but you and your spouse must come up with an agreement. Mediation can save you money, allows you and your spouse to have the final word in your divorce, can give you an opportunity to talk through things and save time.
Like mediation, arbitration uses a third party and keeps your divorce private. However, in this option, the arbitrator makes the final decision. You and your spouse will be able to talk through things but will also have the input of an unbiased professional. This option saves money and time.
Preparing for the next phase
Successful and healthy divorce is not just about closing the chapter of your marriage. It should also include preparation for the next phase of your life. This can mean everything from spousal support to custody of the kids.
If you and your spouse are both going to remain active in your children’s’ lives, you may want to consider creating a co-parenting plan. This agreement is a great way to set your family up for a successful transition and support your children through big changes. Creating a co-parenting plan gives you and your spouse the opportunity to discuss everything from custody and visitation to bedtime, religion and dating.
Divorce is such a huge change, but it doesn’t mean that you must talk about your lives in front of a jury or argue over the kids for the rest of your lives. There are resources that will help support a healthy divorce and family dynamics after.