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Divorce and Family Law
Options for Resolution

The Collaborative Divorce Method

The Collaborative Divorce process requires both you and your spouse to retain your own collaborative lawyer.

With this process,the attorneys, and you and your spouse will agree that you will not go to court, but rather will do everything you can to work out a solution that is reasonable and equitable for both of you. You do this by meeting, information gathering and negotiating - all four of you together. Your lawyer is there as your advocate, but also looks for solutions that work for both parties.

Benefits

• Avoid costly court battles
• Representation for both parties. Each party is represented by an attorney who has been specially trained in collaborative family law.
• You're in control of custody, support and financial issues rather than relying on a court's decision.
• Less stress, fighting and emotional battles.
• Your divorce conflicts remain private, not public.
• Both parties are treated with respect and dignity throughout the process.
• The emotional health of your children is preserved during and after the divorce.

Possible Disadvantage

If you and your spouse are unable to arrive at a settlement using the collaborative method, both attorneys must withdraw from the case. You and your spouse then will both retain trial attorneys and resolve your divorce in court. Remember, however, that while a change in attorney is required if an agreement is not reached, this provision is an important part of the collaborative process as it ensures that all at the table are firmly committed to working towards settlement. The typical positioning and posturing of adversarial negotiations is eliminated.

To learn more about the Collaborative Divorce Method, please call Susan Amato directly at 314-862-0330. After a brief phone consultation, you will learn if this method is appropriate for you.