Divorce Process Chart
*THIS CHART IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE COST NOR THE OUTCOME OF YOUR CASE
1. Process choice, and;
2. Get informed!
The courts are clogged with people who have seen one too many episodes of “reality tv” divorces, with more plot twists and vengeance-seeking than a Summer action movie.
The reality is that your divorce can often be more cost efficient and have a more satisfying outcome if you chose a process other than litigation for you divorce.
Mediation and collaborative divorce will both get you divorced with a judgment signed by a judge that you agree upon.
Which process is good for you?
Here is the simple test.
I will try to narrow it down to the lowest common denominators. Trust and complexity.
If you answered yes to 1 and 3, mediation and the collaborative divorce process may be a much better fit for your family, and your pocketbook.
If you answered yes to 1 and 3, then your complexity is low. If you answered yes to 2 and 4, it is high. Other situations, such as special needs children, would be in the middle.
Final Step
- Plot your case on the chart
- If there is low trust and extremely complex issues, then going to court may be the best decision.
- But under any other circumstances, you should definitely explore mediation and collaborative divorce. They will save you time, money and emotional peace.
Divorce and Separation Novel
This book, written with the collaboration of Kevin and other professional mediators, provides insight into the process of divorce and mediation. What to expect, how to prepare and how to effectively move forward with your life.