What is Collaborative Divorce?

Collaborative divorce in Kansas and Missouri, like in many other states, is a process where couples work together, along with their respective attorneys and possibly other professionals such as financial advisors or therapists, to negotiate a mutually acceptable divorce agreement without going to court.

In a collaborative divorce, both parties agree to resolve their disputes outside of court through a series of cooperative meetings and negotiations. This approach aims to minimize conflict, promote open communication, and empower the couple to make decisions that are in the best interest of both parties and any children involved.

Key aspects of collaborative divorce in Kansas and Missouri may include:

1. Voluntary Participation: Both spouses must voluntarily agree to participate in the collaborative divorce process.
2. Team Approach: Each spouse is represented by their own attorney, and additional professionals such as financial experts or child specialists may be involved to assist in reaching agreements on financial matters, child custody, and other relevant issues.
3. Full Disclosure: Both parties are required to provide full and honest disclosure of their financial information to facilitate fair negotiations.
4. Confidentiality: Discussions and negotiations that occur during the collaborative process are confidential and cannot be used against either party in court if the collaborative process fails and the case proceeds to litigation.
5. No Court Intervention: One of the defining features of collaborative divorce is the commitment not to go to court. If the collaborative process breaks down and the couple decides to litigate, the attorneys who participated in the collaborative process must withdraw from the case, and new attorneys will need to be retained.
6. Focus on Cooperation: The collaborative divorce process emphasizes cooperation and problem-solving rather than adversarial tactics, with the goal of reaching agreements that meet the needs and interests of both spouses and their children.

It's important for couples considering collaborative divorce in Kansas or Missouri to consult with experienced collaborative law attorneys who can guide them through the process and ensure that their rights and interests are protected. Schedule a consult with one of our attorneys today!