If asked to picture the divorce process, what would you imagine? Most people think of a court setting overseen by a judge who determines the outcomes of critical decisions like alimony, child support/ custody, and property division. While divorce court may be common, it’s worth keeping in mind that there are several alternatives that may be better suited for your family’s needs.
Mediation
Mediation is a great choice for those looking to end their marriage on peaceful terms. A mediator can facilitate an agreement that both spouses have reached in their own discussions. When considering mediation, remember that your mediators are not there to provide advice throughout the negotiations, they simply document the final agreement. As such, you may still benefit from the advice of an attorney should you choose this route.
Collaborative Divorce
A collaborative divorce is another viable option for couples looking for a peaceful separation. In these cases, each party hires an attorney who then work together to create a mutually beneficial arrangement. Collaboration with financial planners and counselors is also welcome as we attempt to create the best outcomes for both child support/ custody and financial security.
Arbitration
If you are unable to reach an agreement using other methods, you may resort to an arbitration. Divorce arbitration takes place when a dispute is brought to one or more arbitrators who essentially serve as a private judge (or a panel of judges). Naturally, this puts outcomes out of your direct control. Even still, arbitration can still be an effective and less costly route to pursue compared to divorce court, assuming you and your spouse are struggling to reach an agreement independently.
Do It Yourself
While you can complete the divorce process from filing to finalization on your own, this is the least advisable way to approach this major life change. Divorce is a complex and nuanced task to take on by yourself, and the help of an expert to navigate through the process can position you to secure better outcomes and set yourself and your loved ones up for happiness and success after your divorce is finalized.
Protect Your Finances During and After Divorce with Elizabeth Anu Lawrence Law
The Law Office of Elizabeth A. Lawrence offers high-quality legal representation, personal attention, and professionalism to help defend those who need it most. Click here or call (410) 986-0088 to consult with an experienced attorney today.