Lucas County Collaborative Law Attorneys

Finding a Viable Alternative to a Courtroom Battle

When facing a divorce, child custody dispute, or another family law issue, you may think that a long and daunting court battle is the only way to resolve the matter. However, there is another way.

The Lucas County collaborative law attorneys at Smith & Smith Law Office, LLC can advise you of other options that are often more efficient in resolving conflicts and preserving cordial relationships, which benefits the divorcing spouses and their children. Collaborative law may be right for you if you and the other party are willing to cooperate and compromise.

Call (419) 842-4629 to learn how collaborative law can help resolve your dispute.

The Advantages of Collaborative Law

Collaborative law provides a way for divorcing spouses to work together to achieve a common goal – a livable life for you and your newly separated family. Legal issues can usually be resolved much faster and at a fraction of the cost of litigation. Our Lucas County collaborative law attorneys enjoy helping families work together to resolve disputes and secure positive results for themselves and their children.

How Collaborative Law Works

The collaborative law model was designed to help divorcing spouses resolve major divorce issues without going to court. Rather than allowing a judge to make decisions for your family, you and your ex-spouse retain control over important decisions that will influence your family’s future. Both parties must agree to participate in the process, disclose all relevant information, and refrain from courtroom litigation.

Discussion and negotiations are held in team meetings with:

• Both spouses
• Their attorneys
• A neutral divorce coach
• A neutral financial professional

The approach in collaborative law is much different than in traditional litigation. Everyone at the meeting has a shared goal of reaching an agreement. In the team meetings, information is gathered and shared, and solutions are generated that addresses the goals of each party. The process can be used to resolve conflicts regarding child custody, spousal support, and other issues.

An agenda will be prepared before each team meeting so you will always know what is being discussed in advance. The number of sessions needed will vary depending on the complexity of the issues that must be addressed and each party’s willingness to compromise. A temporary or binding agreement is often reached in these meetings. When the issues are fully resolved, the attorneys will prepare the necessary documents for the divorce process to be finalized by the court.

Discuss Your Options with Our Attorneys

When both parties are willing to forego litigation and commit to the process, collaborative law can be extremely effective in resolving disputes without going to court. You can learn more about the collaborative law process to help you determine if this method is a good fit for your situation by scheduling a consultation with one of our lawyers. We offer a free 10-minute telephone consultation, or you can schedule a longer consultation in our office.

If you are interested in learning more about alternatives to court, call (419) 842-4629 today.