What is Collaborative Divorce in Colorado?

Collaborative divorce in Colorado allows couples the opportunity to work together and reach a divorce settlement together without court involvement. This can be beneficial for couples who are divorcing amicably and are willing to make decisions together. If you and your spouse believe this is the right option for navigating your divorce, consult a divorce attorney in Broomfield, Colorado to discuss your options and what to expect.

Collaborative Divorce Defined

Collaborative divorce is a way for couples to make the conscious decision to work together to make decisions and resolve disputes regarding the terms of their divorce. Experienced lawyers guide both spouses through the process so they have the legal support and counsel they need, especially if disagreements arise. Since this process requires both parties to cooperate, collaborative divorce is generally not recommended for contentious divorces or those that involve domestic violence situations.

How Collaborative Divorce Works in Colorado

Collaborative divorce is governed by Colorado’s Uniform Collaborative Law Act and requires both parties to document in writing their willingness to work together without court intervention. A collaborative divorce agreement must state the couple’s intention and be signed by both parties before it can begin.

Once both parties agree to a collaborative divorce, they work together with their lawyers to determine how their assets should be distributed, how parenting time and child support should be shared, and whether or not spousal support will be included. If couples disagree on various terms, lawyers can guide couples through it to help them reach an agreement for the court to review and sign off on.

Benefits of Choosing Collaborative Divorce

Couples may experience many benefits when choosing collaborative divorce, one of which is that it can help streamline the overall process. Couples who work diligently and reach decisions in a timely manner may be able to finalize their divorce faster and begin the next part of their lives. Some of the key benefits that couples should think about when considering collaborative divorce include:

• Collaborative divorce allows couples to preserve their relationship, which can be particularly helpful if co-parenting
• This process minimizes stress and emotional strain throughout the legal process
• Couples can keep their divorce proceedings, circumstances, and potential issues private by using collaborative divorce, unlike litigation which is a public record
• Without added litigation fees, collaborative divorce is often less expensive for couples
• While the time it takes to finalize a divorce depends on the couple, collaborative divorces are not as lengthy and drawn out
• Collaborative divorce allows you and your spouse to retain control over the terms of your divorce settlement and what your life looks after a divorce, rather than relinquishing control to a court judge

Lawyers can discuss these and other benefits with you, as well as assess whether or not collaborative divorce is suitable for your specific circumstances. Ask a lawyer about it during your consultation if you are interested in this option from the start.

Talk to a Lawyer to Determine if Collaborative Divorce is Right for You

Collaborative divorce can be a positive option for couples during their divorce, but this process is not for everyone. Danielsen Westhoff can help you determine if you should explore this option or pursue a more traditional divorce process. When you contact our firm and schedule a free 15-minute consultation, we can walk you through your options before you file for your divorce.