Building a Collaborative Team to Resolve Divorce Issues 

 Posted on August 11, 2021 in Divorce

Although most people know that attorneys are a crucial part of a divorce, they may be unaware that a variety of other professionals can be involved in helping a divorcing couple who wants to avoid hostile litigation. This is especially true in a collaborative divorce. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of the collaborative divorce process and the different experts couples can use. 

What is a Collaborative Divorce?

Collaborative divorce in Illinois is a method of getting divorced that lets couples negotiate the terms of the divorce out of court. Important things like parenting time, allocation of parental responsibilities, spousal maintenance, and asset and debt division can all be handled through collaborative divorce. Spouses who use the collaborative divorce method usually find the divorce less hostile and come to a more satisfactory compromise on important issues than couples who rely on extensive court litigation and a judge to make decisions. 

What Kinds of Experts Are a Part of a Collaborative Divorce Team?

Divorcing spouses may hire a variety of professionals depending on their circumstances and individual needs. Some of the more common collaborative divorce experts include:

• Divorce Attorneys - Each spouse will still hire an attorney, and they should choose someone with experience in alternative dispute resolutions who is committed to finding a win-win solution for both spouses.

• Accountants - An account can help divorcing parents assess their overall financial situation, understand the tax implications of divorce, and make mutually beneficial decisions regarding the arrangement of expenses and support payments. 

• Child Specialists - Parents with minor children may want to hire a specialist or team of specialists who can help them make decisions regarding their children. This includes traditional parenting issues like parental responsibilities, parenting time, and child support payments, but it also includes treating the situation holistically so parents can strategize about ways to make the divorce less traumatic for children. The child specialist may also be a child therapist who works with the children to help them process the divorce and express their wishes and feelings. 

• Divorce Coaches - A divorce coach can wear many hats, depending on the needs of the parents. Coaches can help parents know what to expect and work through the emotional implications of divorce. They may also help spouses communicate with each other to minimize conflict. Divorce coaches are more neutral than friends and family members and can help divorcing spouses think clearly through their options. 

Speak with a Wheaton, IL Divorce Attorney

The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., understands how important it is to have a team of experienced individuals working on your behalf to achieve an optimal outcome in your divorce. We work with a variety of highly skilled professionals and will make sure you get the help you need. Call us at 630-462-9500 to schedule your confidential consultation with a DuPage County divorce attorney. 

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+V&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=6200000&SeqEnd=8675000