Pittsburgh residents currently planning to file for divorce no doubt want to keep their costs as low as possible. Ending a marriage typically sparks financial challenges, sometimes related to child support or property division, but also often in connection with court fees and other litigation expenses. A collaborative law divorce can help keep costs in check.
Collaboration is definitely not for everyone. Those entangled in contentious situations may be better off litigating the issues before a judge. If the spouses involved get along well enough to engage in civil discussion to resolve issues pertaining to finances, property taxes, and child-related matters, then a collaborative law divorce might be a viable option. In addition to costing less, it allows a spouse to maintain a sense of control over the ultimate legal outcome.
Each spouse typically retains his or her own attorney to enter the collaborative process. Sessions are held in a private setting and all discussions remain confidential, as opposed to a litigated divorce where anything aired in court becomes public knowledge. Both spouses must sign a pre-session agreement stating that they will peacefully negotiate all issues and refrain from litigation.
If the situation cannot be settled out of court, the collaborative law process must terminate. The attorneys must also withdraw. Each party may then hire new representation. A collaborative law divorce is a good choice for those who wish to work together to settle their differences, leave the past behind and move on in life. A Pittsburgh attorney experienced in the collaboration process can provide further information about this form of alternative dispute resolution.