Divorce is a challenging and emotionally charged experience for all parties involved, particularly when children are affected. However, in certain cases, couples are able to find common ground and bypass the arduous process of contested divorce proceedings. This alternative approach is known as a collaborative divorce. Collaborative divorce allows spouses to work together in order to reach an agreement on all terms related to their divorce. Below is a detailed breakdown of the process for a collaborative divorce specifically in Tennessee.
Finding a Collaborative Attorney
Embarking on a collaborative divorce begins by seeking out a skilled collaborative attorney specialized in family law. It is essential for both spouses to retain their own legal representation. These attorneys will serve as guides throughout the process, ensuring that you understand your rights and safeguard your individual interests.
Establishing the Process
After securing your respective collaborative attorneys, a conference will be held involving both attorneys and both spouses. During this conference, agreements will be reached regarding the process of the collaborative divorce. Matters such as scheduling, methods of conducting meetings, and the resolution of potential disputes will all be addressed and determined.
Sharing Information
The next step entails the exchange of relevant information between you and your spouse. This information encompasses financial documents, tax returns, and any other pertinent data that will aid your attorneys in understanding the needs of your family. Furthermore, your attorneys may request the assistance of psychologists, financial planners, and other professionals to help navigate the intricacies of your divorce.
Negotiating Terms
Once the information has been exchanged, the negotiation of the divorce terms begins. Discussions will center around crucial topics such as child custody, child support, spousal support, and the division of assets. It is crucial to bear in mind that in a collaborative divorce, both parties are committed to finding a resolution that satisfies the needs and interests of everyone involved.
Signing the Agreement
After reaching an agreement on all terms, your attorneys will proceed to draft a formal agreement. This agreement will then be reviewed by both parties before being signed. Subsequently, the agreement will be filed with the court.
Finalizing the Divorce
Once the agreement has been filed, the court will schedule a hearing to finalize the divorce. Typically, this is a simple and routine hearing that lasts only a few minutes. Following attendance at this hearing, your divorce will be legally finalized.
Conclusion
A collaborative divorce offers couples an excellent alternative to the stress and expenses associated with contested divorces. By working together to find a mutually acceptable agreement, this process can lead to substantial savings in terms of time, money, and emotional strain. If you are contemplating divorce and are interested in exploring the benefits of collaborative divorce, reach out to a Tennessee collaborative attorney today. They will provide you with the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.