How Can Collaborative Divorce Benefit Illinois Parents?

 Posted on March 16, 2022 in Collaborative Law

As divorce in Illinois continues to be very common, many parents have chosen to ditch the shame and guilt of deciding to separate and instead have chosen to tackle problems head-on, focusing on divorce in a way that is best for their family. While divorce is still not easy, alternative dispute resolution methods allow parents to consciously uncouple while prioritizing the needs of their children. One of the most thorough and effective ways of doing this is through the use of a collaborative divorce. 

Why Would a Parent Choose Collaborative Divorce? 

Traditional divorce methods involve high-stakes court litigation and expensive, conflict-ridden negotiations over money, custody, and other important issues. Rather than get bogged down in endless fighting, parents can work together, with the help of their attorneys and third-party professionals, to achieve a results-driven compromise that puts the needs of the children first.

This takes some of the burden off the shoulders of the parents. With the help of their collaborative team, parents can come up with creative solutions and get impartial feedback on possible custody arrangements. A collaborative divorce team can also help parents keep a long-term perspective and provide unbiased feedback when parents may be too focused on short-term conflict. 

Child Specialists and Collaborative Divorce 

While parents often use accountants, attorneys, and other adult-focused professionals to help with their divorce issues, collaborative divorce offers the opportunity to bring in professionals who are focused on the children and their needs. For example, a child specialist can work with the children to help them process their emotions during divorce. He or she can talk to the children and allow parents to get the children’s input about housing and parenting time arrangements when age appropriate. The child specialist can act as a neutral representative for the children and ensure their voices are heard. 

At first glance, some parents may be wary of bringing such a large team on board for their divorce. It can seem expensive and overwhelming to engage multiple professionals in a private family matter. However, couples who successfully complete the collaborative divorce process are consistently satisfied with the results and often complete their divorces faster and set themselves up for years of successful co-parenting. 

Call a Wheaton, IL Collaborative Divorce Lawyer

If you are considering divorce and you want to prioritize your children’s wellbeing by using a collaborative divorce, the team of Wheaton collaborative divorce attorneys with The Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C. are at your service. We are happy to help you work towards an amicable divorce in whatever way makes the most sense for you and your family. For help creating a positive, respectful divorce environment, call us today at 630-462-9500 to schedule an initial consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+VI&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=8675000&SeqEnd=12200000