If you are approaching divorce in North Carolina, you may have heard the term “collaborative law.” Perhaps a close friend has recommended this option to you. Maybe you have done some internet research, and you are curious about what collaborative divorce actually entails. One question you might be asking yourself is whether or not this option is actually better than a normal, trial-based divorce. Firstly, it is important to understand that each divorce is different. The “best” option for you depends on the unique aspects of your situation. That being said, collaborative divorce is proving to be massively popular in North Carolina. Once you start to explore the various benefits of collaborative divorce, it immediately becomes clear why so many spouses are choosing to end their marriages in this manner.
If you decide that you would like to pursue a collaborative divorce in North Carolina, the first thing you need to do is get in touch with a collaborative divorce attorney. Our legal professionals have considerable experience with collaborative law, and we can guide you through the process. It is best to choose an attorney who focuses on this area of law rather than a divorce attorney who might have more experience with trial-based divorce. Collaborative divorce is different compared to a “normal” divorce, and it requires specialized skills and training on the part of the attorney.
Collaborative Divorce Saves You From Going to TrialPerhaps the most important benefit of a collaborative divorce is that it saves you from having to go to trial. This is probably one of the main reasons why so many spouses prefer collaborative divorce, as trials can be draining, expensive, and time-consuming. Today, most spouses only go to trial if there is no other option. It makes much more sense to work out the issues surrounding a divorce behind closed doors. As anyone who has gone through a divorce trial before can tell you, this process can be incredibly stressful, and it can drag on almost indefinitely. As time goes on, you will need to continue paying legal fees.
Collaborative Divorces are PrivateBecause a collaborative divorce involves negotiations that take place behind closed doors, this entire process can be extremely private. We all know that when a marriage ends, there can be many embarrassing details that spouses wish to keep quiet. This can be accomplished easily with a collaborative divorce. On the other hand, a trial is completely open to the public, and everything that is discussed goes on public record. This may include allegations of substance abuse, domestic violence, financial misconduct, adultery, and much more. Collaborative divorce is especially effective for spouses with a public persona for this reason.
Collaborative Divorce Gives You Much More ControlIf you pursue a trial-based divorce, you will have very little control over the outcome. This is because a trial is presided over by a judge and jury, and these individuals will have the ultimate say in how various aspects of the divorce are decided. These include matters related to property division, child support, child custody, spousal support, and more. Obviously, you know more about your marriage and your family than a judge. Even though it is true that judges are fair and professional, they do not necessarily know what is best for your family. If you pursue a collaborative divorce, you can maintain complete control over how your divorce is finalized.
Collaborative Divorces are More ConvenientIt is also worth mentioning that collaborative divorces are generally quicker and cheaper compared to trial-based divorces. If both spouses are on the same page in terms of how they want to end their marriage, separation agreements can be drafted within a matter of days or weeks. Even if there are disputes over certain details, these issues are usually ironed out rather quickly. Because this process takes a shorter period of time to resolve, you can also expect it to be more affordable.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney TodayIn order to truly take advantage of these benefits, you will need to team up with a collaborative divorce attorney. If you have been searching the North Carolina area for a legal professionals, look no further than Arnold & Smith, PLLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous spouses tackle this process in a confident, efficient manner. We have considerable experience with collaborative law, and we can help you draft a separation agreement that satisfies both spouses. Book your consultation today, and we can explain the benefits of collaborative divorce in much more detail.