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Collaborative Law FAQs |
We've tried to compile a list of the most frequently asked questions about collaborative divorce. If you have a question that's not answered below, submit your Collaborative Law question here. You may also want to visit our Is Collaborative the Right Choice for Me? page. How Do I Start a Collaborative Divorce Case? You need to contact an attorney whose trained in the Collaborative Process. Collaborative Professionals are listed at the Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan website. The attorney you choose will know how to start the process and will be willing to answer your Collaborative Law questions. How Much Does a Collaborative Divorce Cost? It depends. Most lawyers will charge you an hourly fee (but might require an up-front retainer). Sometimes, there are other experts involved like mental health practitioners, financial planners, and maybe even a child advocate. Depending on the number of meetings the parties need to resolve all issues, it can get expensive, but most agree that it's cheaper than a divorce trial. As with a traditional divorce case, the more you and your spouse can agree, the less it's going to cost you. Some attorneys may say they work collaboratively, but in a true Collaborative Divorce, both spouses and their attorneys begin by signing a binding, written agreement not to go to court. Make sure your attorney understands your wishes and has experience in true Collaborative Process. Your attorney will know how to start the process. What's the Lawyer's Role in All of This? Collaborative Law attorneys are trained to respectfully engage in non-confrontational negotiation and to make sure that discussions are productive and cooperative. They act more as educators or advisors and settlement specialists, not overbearing, know-it all bulldogs hired to make the other party’s life miserable. What if We Try the Collaborative Process and It Doesn't Work? Your team should make sure that there really is a road block and not just a hiccup. If you really try to work collaboratively and it just doesn't work, but attorneys will withdraw from your case (remember, they signed an agreement not to argue about your case in court). This policy ensures that your lawyers work hard to make the Collaborative Process work. Your Collaborative attorney may be able to direct you to another divorce lawyer in the area who can take over and litigate it as a tradition divorce case. I'm Not Sure I Want to Go Forward with a Collaborative Divorce. What Should I Do? Get more information. Check out our Collaborative Links page. Google Collaborative Divorce. Talk to Friend and Family, especially those who have gone through a divorce. If you have more questions, take advantage of the free consultation some attorneys offer. |
| Bendure & King, PLLC heather@bendureandking.com (313) 300-1183 |
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