Collaborative law is a very useful tool to resolve many types of family law cases. The process is specifically designed to provide an atmosphere of cooperation to eliminate the typical atmosphere of “us versus them” that is common in family disputes. Although commonly associated with divorce, collaborative law can be used to help resolve many types of family law disputes. Child support, child custody/parenting plan modifications, relocation, or post-divorce alimony modification can all benefit from the collaborative process. Collaborative law is good for a case when the parties are willing to engage in respectful and open discussions about their situation.
Collaborative law is also useful where the parties are committed to creating an agreement that is tailor-made for their particular situation. Parties to a divorce, for example, are often in the best position to have a complete and comprehensive understanding of their assets and debts. As such, it is easier and faster for spouses to come together to make a fair and sensible division.
Furthermore, parents are in the best position to make the determination on what would work best for their children. This often means that parents should put aside conflict to craft a parenting schedule that is based on their children’s specific needs, schedules, and personalities. Another benefit to using collaborative law in cases involving children is that it helps keep parental conflict to a minimum. Children are often deeply affected by such conflict, and any chance to eliminate turbulence or instability for the family is in the children’s best interest. Basically, any time parties want to come together to craft a unique and customized solution for their case, collaborative law is a good option.
In order for the process to work, both parties must be willing and ready to participate in collaborative law. Because collaborative law is premised on the idea that both parties provide information and work together, this cannot be done if one or both of the parties refuses to cooperate. So before you settle on collaborative divorce, honestly evaluate whether you believe you and the other party are able to set aside the emotional difficulties attached to your case and honestly work together.
Choosing collaborative law is a highly personal decision. Ken Levey is experienced and specially trained in collaborative law and can help you decide if it is right for your case. Contact us at (253) 272-9459, or email us at info@kleveylaw.com.
