We utilize the collaborative process in Kansas City to remove the element of litigation and settle divorce cases respectfully, transparently, and privately. Unlike a contested divorce, the Collaborative Practice dispute-resolution process is based on a pledge in which you, your spouse, and your attorneys contractually agree to negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement without having the court make decisions for you.
Hallmarks Of A Collaborative Process Divorce
There are a few standard characteristics of divorces that utilize the collaborative process and/or divorce mediation. One of the biggest is control. You and your spouse control the process and make final decisions rather than the court. Both spouses contractually pledge mutual respect and openness rather than the traditional process in which they are adversaries. Both spouses communicate directly with assistance from members of their team rather than through their attorneys as in a contested divorce.
The collaborative process utilizes jointly retained specialists to provide information and guidance toward mutually beneficial solutions. The “team model” is financially efficient in the use of experts, which helps to keep costs manageable. Collaborative divorce
and divorce mediation are usually less expensive than litigation. The process, discussion, and negotiation details are kept private rather than being aired out in a courtroom.
Principles Of The Collaborative Process
There are four key principles that define the collaborative process.
Core Principle #1: Your situation is resolved outside the court during and after the divorce
- Work occurs as a team
- Private
Core Principle #2: Everything is “on the table.”
- Full financial disclosure
- Workplace/career impact
- Family or child issues
- Other issues the court may not consider
Core Principle #3: Your team cannot represent you if you abandon the process and litigate.
- Your team is in place to support you through the collaborative process.
- If that process breaks down, the team is contractually obligated to step away.
Core Principle #4: Parties’ needs are addressed within the “Safe Container.”
- Team effort is to develop options reflective of the family’s goals and interests
The Collaborative Process In Kansas City
Collaborative Practice Kansas City, LLC is a Kansas City area community of independent legal, mental health, and financial professionals working in concert to create client-centered processes for resolving divorce conflict. Together, the Collaborative Practice professionals leverage the collaborative process in Kansas City to help you reach a settlement agreement that works for both parties.
The process of collaborative divorce provides a forum for open communication, planning, settling disputes through problem-solving, and working with a team to
develop creative solutions. Collaborative Practice enables participants to have control of decision-making within the divorce with the support of a professional team.
For more information about the collaborative process in Kansas City, contact a Collaborative Practice team member at 913-380-2560 or click here.
