What is Collaborative Divorce?

Collaborative divorce is a form of dispute resolution developed right here in Minnesota over 25 years ago and has since spread throughout the world. The movement was started by a divorce attorney who was tired of all the hostility in divorce cases. Committed to helping people divorce with respect and dignity, he created a process for negotiating divorce terms outside of Court, in an open, honest, and respectful way.

In a collaborative divorce, the parties and their attorneys sign a participation agreement pledging to stay out of court. The process is client-driven, rather than attorney-driven. Each person’s goals are identified and disagreements are resolved using an interest-based, problem solving approach. Financial neutrals, divorce coaches, and child specialists may join the team as needed, supporting the divorcing couple with their unique skills.

Advantages of Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce has a number of distinct advantages over litigation:

• Costs are more manageable, usually less expensive than litigation.
• Collaborative divorce proceeds on the couple's timetable, not the court's timetable.
• Collaborative divorce gives the parties control over the process and the power to craft creative solutions that work for them.
• In a collaborative process, the interests and concerns of all are identified and addressed.
• Having control over the outcome of the divorce reduces stress and increases compliance with the terms of the divorce.
• Perhaps most importantly, by helping the parties to communicate openly and develop resolutions together, collaborative divorce can set the stage for parents to have a more successful co-parenting relationship as they move forward with their lives.

Experienced Edina Collaborative Divorce Attorney

There is no pain-free way to end a marriage. Choosing the right process can make all the difference. Attorney Betsy Anding can help you identify the divorce process that's right for you, whether Collaborative or Traditional.

Located in Edina, Anding Law Office, P.A. serves the Greater Twin Cities area. If you are contemplating divorce, or have other family law issues arise, and would like to learn more about the collaborative process, contact Anding Law Office, P.A. for a free consultation.