Is A Florida Collaborative Divorce More Affordable than Litigation?
Divorce is not only an emotionally draining process, but the financial cost can also be great. In recent years, Florida law has allowed divorcing couples to go through a collaborative process, which can streamline the process while also allowing you to potentially save money. Below our Tampa divorce attorney explains just a few ways that a collaborative divorce may potentially be more affordable than litigation.
Potentially Lower Legal Fees if a Collaborative Divorce
One of the biggest benefits of collaborative divorce is that it can result in lower legal fees; however, the caveat is that you must agree to all of terms of the divorce. Collaborative divorce focuses on resolving the issues in your case and on open communication between the parties. This can greatly reduce the time spent on resolving issues and the costs involved. If you cannot agree, then you must litigate your divorce. You must find different attorneys to do so, as terms of the Collaborative Contract are that you must change attorneys if you cannot come to an agreement.
Potentially Streamlined Process if a Collaborative Divorce
Litigating your divorce case may take longer to resolve your issues. Litigation can involve depositions, a long discovery process, court reporters, experts, trial fees, and other costs. Not only can this process be more expensive, but it may also takes much longer than the collaborative process. The collaborative process may be more streamlined and resolve issues in a more efficient manner, while also focusing on the common goals of the couple.
Potentially Less Emotional Toll when using a Collaborative Divorce
Litigation can be an exhausting process. It causes much more stress and anxiety for both parties and can strain the relationships throughout the entire family. This emotional drain can impact your overall well-being and may result in therapy or counseling. The collaborative process is much less stressful and largely involves negotiation between your attorney and your spouse’s attorney. The collaborative process is also very results-driven and so, this can help you focus on resolution rather than drawing out a process that is already emotional.
Potentially Greater Flexibility When Using a Collaborative Method of Resolving a Case
There is very little flexibility when going through litigation. A judge will make all of the final decisions and they will base them on the law and certain formulas. They may not take your personal situation into consideration at all. During a collaborative divorce, you can create customized solutions that are more suitable for you and your family.
Potentially Greater Confidentiality
Anything that happens in open court becomes a matter of public record. This means that by litigating your divorce, you may be exposing financial and personal information you wanted to keep confidential. Documents drafted during collaborative meetings are filed privately and so, you can keep your sensitive information to yourself.
Our Tampa Collaborative Divorce Attorneys Will Provide the Representation You Need
It is even more critical that you work with an experienced Tampa collaborative divorce attorney when going through this process. If collaboration is unsuccessful, you cannot use the same lawyer if you enter litigation.
Furthermore, there are options other than collaborative divorce to resolve your issues peacefully, without litigation, and not be obligated to fulfilling a collaborative contract which may be much better and less expensive.
At All Family Law Group, P.A., our experienced attorneys are results-driven and committed to helping you resolve your issues in the most effective and efficient way possible. Call us now at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys and to get the legal representation you need. Se habla Español.
Source:
flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2016/0967/BillText/er/PDF
