Once upon a time, in the land of Breakupsburg, there lived three divorce options: Papa Bear Litigation (too hot), Mama Bear Mediation (too cold), and Baby Bear Collaborative Divorce. Let’s explore why collaborative divorce might be the bowl of porridge that’s just right for many couples.
Not Too Adversarial, Not Too Kumbaya
Collaborative divorce strikes a balance between the formality of litigation and the informality of mediation. You get legal representation without declaring all-out war. It’s like having a peace treaty and a battle plan at the same time.
Support That’s Just Right
Unlike litigation (where you might feel like a spectator in your own divorce) or mediation (where you might feel under-supported), collaborative divorce gives you a team of professionals without overwhelming you. It’s like having a personal cheering squad, but they all have advanced degrees.
A Structure That Fits
More structured than mediation, but more flexible than litigation, collaborative divorce offers a “just right” process for many couples. It’s like having a map for your journey, but you can still take scenic detours if needed.
The Right Amount of Expertise
You get the financial and child expertise you need, without the overkill of multiple court-appointed experts. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife instead of an entire toolshed – just the right tools for the job.
Pace That’s Not Too Fast, Not Too Slow
Move faster than litigation allows, but take more time than mediation might to really work through issues. It’s like a divorce slow cooker – it takes time, but the results are worth it.
Communication That’s Just Right
More supported than the direct negotiations in mediation, but less adversarial than communication through litigation. It’s like having a translator for those times when you and your ex seem to be speaking different languages.
A Future Focus That Fits
Unlike litigation (which looks mainly at the past and present) or mediation (which might not have the tools to plan extensively), collaborative divorce helps you create a vision for your post-divorce life that’s just right. It’s like having a GPS for your future, not just a rearview mirror.
Why Collaborative Divorce Might Be Your Goldilocks Solution
- It’s Flexible: Like Goldilocks trying out different chairs, collaborative divorce allows you to customize the process to fit your needs.
- It’s Balanced: Not too hard, not too soft – it strikes the right balance between protecting your interests and promoting cooperation.
- It’s Supported: You have a team of experts, like Goldilocks had the three bears (except your team won’t chase you out of the house).
- It’s Forward-Looking: While addressing your current issues, it also helps you plan for a future that’s “just right.”
- It’s Comprehensive: Like a perfect bowl of porridge, it has all the ingredients you need for a satisfying resolution.
Remember, like Goldilocks, you might need to try a few approaches before you find the one that’s just right. But for many couples, collaborative divorce offers that perfect middle ground – not too hard, not too soft, but just right for moving forward into your new life.
So, if you’re looking for a divorce option that’s not too hot, not too cold, but just right, collaborative divorce might be your Goldilocks solution. It might not come with a fairy tale ending, but it could help you write a pretty good “happily ever after” for your post-divorce life.
Take Control of Your Future
Looking to explore your divorce options including mediation? Berni Stevens, an experienced mediator, divorce coach, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA), supports clients in mediation, collaborative divorce, and litigation.
Schedule Your Complimentary Divorce Strategy Session Today!
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