After filing a petition for divorce alleging that husband Charlie Sheen was abusive and addicted to pornography and prostitutes, Denise Richards received a voicemail from him telling her to rot in [expletive] hell. Burt Reynolds hurled shocking insults at Loni Anderson throughout their divorce proceedings. Heather Mills set the tone of her divorce by dumping water on one of Paul McCartney’s lawyers.
The average divorce can be just as contentious and malevolent. Put anyone in an adversarial system and you are guaranteed at least a heightened level of tension. But since the vast majority of cases settle, many people wonder if it makes sense to spend the time, resources and emotional energy to prepare for trial.
Appealing concepts of collaborative divorce
Collaborative divorce assists couples in making as smooth a transition as possible from one household to two — without court intervention. Collaborative divorce may be a good choice if the following concepts appeal to you and your spouse:
- Mutual respect. You agree to disclosing all of your assets and maintaining confidentiality. You agree to shield your children from the proceedings and do whatever is necessary to minimize their trauma. In short, you are both willing to replace adversarial posturing with sincerity and cooperation.
- Problem-solving approach. Although similar to mediation in its problem-solving approach and interest-based bargaining, collaborative divorce differs in several ways. You and your spouse are placed on equal footing through the support and guidance of your own lawyers. You share neutral financial experts (tax consultants, business appraisers, etc.) and counselors (divorce counselors and parenting consultants).
Since collaborative divorce is faster, does not require court filings, and uses shared financial experts and consultants, it is far less expensive than litigation — in many cases 30 to 80 percent less. The main advantage, however, is engaging in a process that helps you arrive at your own best solutions so you can move on with your life with minimal stress and aggravation.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Offer Experienced Legal Representation
If you are interested in exploring the possibility of a collaborative divorce, reach out to a qualified Baltimore County divorce lawyer at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC for assistance. Our Towson divorce lawyers can talk to you about your divorce and help you determine whether the collaborative process is right for you. Call our Hunt Valley, MD office today at (443) 589-0150 to schedule your consultation with an experienced Towson divorce lawyer or you may contact us online.