What Is the Collaborative Law Process?

At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, many of our attorneys are trained in the collaborative divorce process. We carefully examine our clients' unique situations and advise them on the best course of action. Our vast experience is a valuable and immediate benefit to our clients struggling to resolve issues surrounding their divorce. There are many steps that must be followed when proceeding through collaboration.

• Selection of representatives: In the collaborative law process, it is necessary that each party selects an attorney who is trained in collaborative divorce. Working together, both parties and their lawyers negotiate an acceptable compromise to each and every dispute.
• Collaborative divorce agreement: At the beginning of the process, each party must make a commitment to the process by signing a Collaborative Agreement. This Agreement states that the parties and the attorneys will work together in a respectful manner and help to make the process run smoothly. Here, the parties also agree to be honest and disclose the necessary information when appropriate.
• A group for the same goal: During collaborative divorce, it is sometimes necessary to rely on the experience and expertise of other collaborative law professionals. These professionals are typically called in depending on the current matter and can be financial advisers, child specialists or coaches.
• Negotiating a settlement: Through a series of meetings, each issue will be discussed and resolved. It is the goal of both attorneys to keep negotiations running smoothly and in a productive manner. Many individuals feel the temptation to let emotions run high, but the collaborative divorce process is designed so that disputes can be resolved in a professional and respectful manner.
• Final steps: Once a settlement has be reached on all disputes, the lawyers will create legally binding documents that spell out the compromises. These documents will serve to hold all parties accountable if the terms of the settlement are broken. Often, though, the parties tend to abide by the terms because they had a stake in their creation.

To arrange a consultation, contact Andrew Cores Family Law Group by calling 630-871-1002 or by completing our online form. With offices in DuPage County and Kendall County, we have experience helping clients throughout Illinois.