Collaborative Divorce meetings and what really happens
Collaborative Divorce meetings are the key component of the Collaborative process as this is the venue for discussing settlement options. However, a lot of work is done to prepare for them so they are as productive as possible. Meetings include the participants and their attorneys, as well as third party professionals if needed, such as a financial professional or mental health professional. During meetings, you and your team will follow an agenda prepared in advance by the attorneys.
After the initial meeting where introductions are made and the Collaborative Divorce Participation Agreement is executed, the issues to be discussed in subsequent meetings will vary based on the issues that need to be addressed in a particular case. For example, if the parties need to address the distribution of assets and debts, then they will first exchange relevant documents guided by the attorneys. Once documents have been exchanged, the team meeting will focus on questions related to any assets and debts in order to arrive at a consensus as to values and balances. Additionally, there will be a discussion of each party’s interests with respect to any items, such as what will happen with the marital home, and the team will brainstorm options for settlement. Depending on the time it will take to discuss each issue, the team may also discuss support (alimony and/or child support).
Additional information about Collaborative Divorce meetings:
- Meetings are typically scheduled for no more than 2 hours at a time;
- Meeting locations varies, but are typically held at the attorney’s office (alternating locations);
- Dress comfortably;
- Be prepared. If you are tasked to bring any information or documents with you or to think about settlement options in advance, then be ready to share at the meeting;
- Let your attorney know of any recent issues that have arisen and that need to be discussed; and
- Know that you may always step outside and speak privately with your attorney during a team meeting.
Dan Lewis is a partner with Tin Fulton Walker & Owen, PLLC, in Charlotte, North Carolina. He has exclusively practiced family law since 2005, is a North Carolina Certified Family Financial Mediator, and has been practicing Collaborative law since 2009.