When people think of divorce, many automatically imagine contentious courtroom battles fueled by anger and betrayal. In reality, while cases are typically tough and emotional, there are many people that want to do it without the inflated emotions and be able to move on with their lives. Divorce doesn’t have to be ugly. Even if you’re dealing with a high-conflict person or complex situation, there are several alternative ways to divorce. These options may avoid drama and the additional expense of fighting.

Alternative Ways to Divorce

Couples sometimes grow apart. Even if there has been fighting and anger, they are ready to dissolve the marriage and move toward a healthier and more functional future. Alternative ways to divorce work best for those who can still tap into love or compassion for their spouse. You can come through it the best way possible if you truly want to see each party successful in moving through the divorce. Three alternative ways to divorce for these types of situations include:

Do it Yourself

Like many things these days, you have the option of a DIY divorce.

While not always the recommended path due to the intricate legalities and paperwork, it can be done.

However, remember that many of the choices are permanent once signed. It can be beneficial to have an attorney at least look at things before you commit to the agreement.

Mediation

During a divorce mediation, both parties work with a neutral mediator to come to a resolution about numerous things. This includes parenting time, asset division, family support, and more.

The mediator doesn’t have to be a lawyer, but they must be highly familiar with divorce and family law. Mediators can help couples avoid fighting, which often allows parties to work together in the future better, especially if they have children.

It’s important to note that although a mediator will walk you through the process, both parties may also choose to hire an attorney to look over the settlement documents before signing. Another thing to note is that if the mediation does “fail,” you might still end up in court. Therefore, it is important that both parties agree to see it through peacefully and trust each other to be honest.

Mediation has the best chance of success when both parties are 100% transparent about everything.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce is a swiftly growing sector. This is a process where the parties work toward agreements – each with their own attorneys – and they commit not to go to court.

In collaborative divorce, the spouses disclose information voluntarily – it is a completely transparent process. Once agreements are reached – with the assistance of the collaborative team – the attorneys draft the documents and the judge signs the paperwork – usually without the parties even having to come to court.

There are many benefits to collaborative divorce. For example, this is usually a quicker and less expensive process than a traditional/litigated divorce. Also, there is reduced fighting and negativity, and less impact on the lives of everyone involved.

Collaborative divorce works best with parties whose mutual desire is to avoid fighting and who want to keep everyone’s best interests in mind. Not only do you have a skilled attorney working on your behalf, but you also create also a low-drama situation that can benefit both spouses (and your children) in the long run.

Find a Collaborative Law Practitioner

While each of these alternative ways to divorce has their appeal, the collaborative process works to reduce fighting while allowing the parties to hear each other. If you or someone you know wants to know more about the collaborative process and how it may be a better solution for your family, contact the professionals at Best Legal Choices today.