Divorce in Florida can be peaceful, easy, more affordable, and fast without necessarily going to court. The law allows you to focus on settlement and negotiation when ending your marriage instead of going through the traditional litigation process. If you are considering this kind of divorce, here is what you need to know.
What is collaborative divorce?
In 2016, the state of Florida adopted a collaborative process act that allows couples to work together respectfully, peacefully, and honestly during their separation in a legitimate way that benefits both parties. You should agree with your soon to become ex-partner on how to divide your property and other aspects like child custody, alimony, and retirement accounts.
Who’s involved in a collaborative divorce?
• A facilitator – This is a person with mental health training that helps you and your partner communicate effectively, ensuring that you make the right decisions during your divorce.
• A neutral financial expert – Of course, you will need someone that will accurately gather all your financial information without bias to determine how you will split your assets and liabilities.
• An attorney – A collaborative lawyer per se will help you through any legal decisions concerning your split and make sure that it goes in the best way for you.
How does collaborative divorce work?
The first thing you need to do to divorce this way is to meet up with your partner together with your lawyers and sign an agreement that you want a collaborative divorce. In your agreement, you will need to assent to acting respectfully and honestly by disclosing all the relevant information and reach an amicable solution. Your attorneys will also agree that if you can’t develop a civil and friendly solution, they will withdraw from the case, and your divorce will proceed to litigation.
Next, you will find a financial expert and decide on a schedule that they will use to gather your financial and any other relevant information concerning your assets and liabilities. If needed, you can also get a facilitator to help you through your disagreements that could drag the process. Then, if you reach an agreement, you will put it in writing and take it to the judge to make the divorce official.
Consider collaborative divorce if you want an easier separation. It often helps couples move forward positively and quickly.
