When you think of a divorce attorney, a scary image may come to mind – an image of someone who is gruff, competitive, uncompromising, and ready to fight out every issue in a courtroom. While this may be a true depiction of some divorce attorneys, it is not representative of them all. In fact, a Collaborative Divorce Attorney is a divorce attorney who, while always zealously advocating for you, the client, sees the divorce as a problem to be solved instead of a competition between you and your spouse to be fought tooth and nail.
A Collaborative Divorce Attorney is equipped with training and experience in certain negotiation techniques designed to facilitate a mutually acceptable and durable agreement between you and your spouse resolving all issues related to divorce. Unlike other divorce attorneys, the Collaborative Divorce Attorney is limited in their representation in that he or she will not represent you in any contested litigation proceeding. This allows both you and your Collaborative Divorce Attorney to focus on achieving a lasting resolution to issues stemming from the divorce without the threat of potential court action.
Your Collaborative Divorce Attorney will ensure you enter the Collaborative Process with informed consent after considering the risks and benefits of the process. Your attorney will maintain attorney-client privilege with you throughout the process while educating you about the law, your finances, and the facts necessary to make informed decisions to resolve all issues. Your attorney will listen to your needs, goals, and interests and ensure your voice is heard throughout the process. Your attorney will communicate with the other professionals to maintain the process and work to problem-solve as a team. Most importantly, your attorney will advocate for you and assist you in resolving all issues in a way that best meets your long-term goals and that of your family.
If you are contemplating the Collaborative Divorce process and want to learn more or meet with a Collaborative Divorce Attorney, check out www.charlottecollaborativedivorce.org for more information.
By: Jennifer P. Moore
Jennifer P. Moore is a Senior Associate Attorney with Marcellino & Tyson, PLLC whose family history instilled in her a compassion for her clients and desire to assist them in their time of need with the goal of becoming stronger and happier after divorce. Yourncattorney.com.