Does Collaborative Divorce Work?

Collaborative divorce works because all parties involved are committed to working together in order to create effective, lasting resolutions.  Unlike traditional litigation, the collaborative divorce approach does not engage in the adversarial process, and strives for all parties involved to work together.   Keeping the decision-making power in the client’s hands, instead of yielding to a judge’s ruling, can give people a degree of control over their lives when things may seem out of control.

Collaborative Divorce Works When All Parties Involved Are Committed To Working Together.

When Hugh works with clients in a collaborative divorce, there are four professionals on the team besides both spouses.  Each spouse secures their own legal representation, acting as an advocate for their respective client.  The spouses and their attorneys enter into an agreement to work together to resolve all of the issues of the divorce, including child custody, child support, spousal support and property division questions.

An added benefit of the collaborative approach to divorce is its interdisciplinary nature.  Other professionals, such as a financial neutral, will assist with the financial aspects of the divorce.  In this role, a financial neutral will gather all financial information which streamlines the process and saves on cost.  Another member of the collaborative team is a divorce coach, who helps both clients address all parenting issues, and assist the parties with their communication.  If any mental or emotional health needs arise, clients are referred to therapy and counseling services outside the collaborative divorce team.

Hugh knows the challenges that people face when it is time to divorce, and the good that collaborative divorce can do when a couple is committed to keeping a respectful relationship for the future.  This can be incredibly important to the well-being of a child because, while parents may no longer be spouses to each other, they will always be parents to their children.

Divorce is an emotionally traumatic event in anyone’s life, but it does not need to be a fight.  Hugh O’Donnell introduced the collaborative divorce method to Kansas City and the metro area in 2001, and is dedicated to help guide you in making sound decisions.  Contact him today to schedule a consultation, or feel free to call at (816) 533-5152 with any questions you have regarding your case.