You may believe that the only way to get a divorce is by standing in front of a judge and airing all of your family’s dirty laundry. While a divorce ends with a judge’s signature, there are different paths to getting there.
How you and your spouse arrive at the divorce decree depends on many factors. Discover some of the options you have to get through the legal process of uncoupling from your spouse.
Uncontested divorce
If you and your spouse agree on the terms of your divorce with no help, an uncontested divorce is a good option. This usually works for people who have not had a lengthy marriage, do not share children or commingled assets. If you have children, you cannot go the route of an uncontested divorce.
Mediation
There may prove a few sticking points in your separation that you and your spouse may need help getting through. Mediation provides couples a neutral third party to guide them to reach satisfactory agreements on all facets of divorce. Even in instances where things become heated, a mediator may get couples to reach agreements that allow them to maintain control over their financial future and time with children.
Collaborative divorce
Collaborative divorce is gaining steam in the family court system. This process involves meeting with your spouse and respective attorneys several times to hash out a plan. A collaborative divorce is effective in situations where separated spouses maintain a level of cordial behavior and remain open to compromise.
Absent a formal agreement in the above methods, at any time, you or your spouse may choose to traverse the traditional divorce route. However, doing so may result in decisions by a person who does not know your family dynamic and cause further strife, even in the end.