Commit to A Gentler Divorce

Focus on Resolutions & Avoid Court With Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative Divorce Attorneys

The Collaborative Divorce Professionals of West Michigan know firsthand that divorce is difficult for everyone. Our experienced and dedicated team of collaborative attorneys, financial  and child specialists and divorce coaches help clients navigate the process with dignity and respect.

The most destructive component of divorce is conflict. Collaborative divorce assists divorcing couples in remaining focused on the best interest of the family and children, while reducing unnecessary tension and promoting cooperation.

Collaborative law is an alternative to litigation — which typically places lawyers, plaintiffs and defendants in adversarial postures. Although aggressive advocacy may be appropriate in some criminal or civil cases, it is not appropriate for families in transition. 

Most people find it difficult to “get along” when divorcing because there are so many strong emotions present. Through the collaborative divorce process, every member of a collaborative team shares the same goals and has been specially trained to help the couple reach satisfying solutions for all members of the family, rather than each attorney fighting solely for one party.

In collaborative law, a collaborative contract is signed first, requiring parties to resolve their differences without going to court. Then, a team of collaboratively trained professionals partners with the clients to develop an agreement that is psychologically reasonable and legally sound. When an agreement is reached, it is signed and taken to the court for final disposition. If any client chooses to file a complaint with the court before the process is completed, the collaborative team is dissolved.

People rarely feel safe or calm in court. That’s why divorce coaches support individuals in staying focused on reaching resolutions, rather than becoming distracted by anger and resentment. This approach helps families make thoughtful decisions about their future, instead of trying to recover from the emotional and financial costs of a legal battle.

Opting for a collaborative divorce can provide both parties with a number of benefits. It allows couples to avoid going to court and having a judge make decisions for them. Instead, they are able to openly discuss their needs, concerns, assets and debts in a respectful setting. The process encourages good-faith negotiation strategies and constructive problem-solving techniques, helping both parties reach a mutually agreed-upon settlement based on their own priorities rather than the court’s. Most importantly, the collaborative approach keeps the focus on developing resolutions that truly meet the needs of the children.

Divorce is an unfortunate experience of life, but the litigation process can make it even more devastating. While it is not “therapy,” the collaborative process can be very therapeutic, as it provides a safe, calm environment in which to deal with difficult issues.

For more information about collaborative divorce at Collaborative Divorce Pros, please contact us here or call us directly at 616.233.9160.